By Daniel-Nwosu Lucy N.
Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing the welfare of both Government staff and citizens thereby ensuring the impact and dividends of democracy is visible to all, even at the Local Government Areas.
The newly sworn-in Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe gave this assertion during his maiden meeting with the Management and Staff of the Ministry.
He affirmed Government dedication to creating an enabling environment that supports Staff while also improving the lives of citizens as the days of unemployment are gone in Edo State, hence the Governor, Senator Monday Okpehbolo had earlier, magnanimously approved the immediate employment of 360 Cleaners into the Civil/Public Service, 50 Graduates in various disciplines. He noted that the Government targets 1,000 Youths in its first batch of employment which had already begun.
Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe reiterated that the well-being of the workforce is crucial for delivering better services to the public. As government will look into the areas where the Ministry is lacking and ensure that workers are fully engaged and properly placed.
The Honourable Commissioner emphasized the importance of collaboration and the need for the 18 Local Government Areas to go back to farming as they drive the local environment thereby fostering agricultural ventures. This initiative he added, is aimed at enhancing food production and tackling the rising cost of commodities in the State, as agriculture is key to self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
In addition to employment and agricultural development, he highlighted the crucial role of LGAs in delivering basic amenities. “Local Governments should provide potable water, tarred roads and access to quality healthcare services” amongst others, this he said reflects the dividends of democracy.
Responding to reactions and appeal from some Staff of the Ministry, Sir (Dr) Lucky Eseigbe, stated that the Governor is one who listens and has the best interest of workers and citizens of Edo State at heart, adding that a new Edo has risen and the people will be the better for it.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. George Igberaese welcomed the Honourable Commissioner alongside other Management and Staff. He assured of the Ministry’s readiness to run with the mandate of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo led administration, adding that it would not be business as usual. He further informed the Honourable Commissioner that the Ministry had Community Development Officers deployed to the eighteen Local Government Areas for wider coverage.
The Edo State Chairman, Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria and Staff of the Ministry, Comrade Joseph Wasah commended the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo for starting well, as Civil/Public Servants are pleased with his style of administration.
While appreciating the Commissioner, he noted that Civil Servants are not partisans but are ready to work with the Government of the day. He further assured of Edo workers loyalty and continuous co-operation.
