By Omoruyi Patricia Osayomore
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State rightfully deserves resounding applause for his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the people during his seven years in office.
Attempting to encapsulate the multitude of accomplishments within this timeframe is akin to navigating an endless narrative loop. Each recounting of one achievement inevitably leads to the revelation of another, creating an intricate tapestry of success that seems boundless. However, it is my fervent admiration for his exemplary leadership, steadfast commitment, and prioritization of the people’s welfare that compels me to highlight some of Governor Obaseki’s legendary deeds.
Foremost among his initiatives is the establishment of comprehensive health coverage for all workers, reflecting his profound understanding of the adage “health is wealth.”
Governor Obaseki is resolute in ensuring the well-being of his workforce, irrespective of their Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. By embracing the popular saying, the Governor acknowledged the foundational role that good health plays in individual and collective prosperity. A healthy workforce/population is more productive, contributing positively to the state’s overall development.
The Governor and his dedicated team on the comprehensive health coverage scheme consistently enhance the health insurance system, striving to encompass the ever-expanding workforce. The absorption initially began with the involvement of civil/public servants and was subsequently expanded to encompass pensioners, among others.
Also, in recent years, the Governor has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing the capabilities of civil and public servants. The focal point of this commitment has been the training and retraining of the Edo workforce, with particular attention given to the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) and Information Communication Technology Agency (ICTA). A significant percentage of the staff population has participated in diverse courses and modules directly aligned with their job roles and duties. The governor acknowledges the vital importance of imparting the necessary knowledge to workers for the successful governance of the state.
Through a clear series of commitments and substantial investments in JOOPSA and ICTA, the training academy and agency have evolved into a benchmark, serving as a point of reference for other states and countries.
In 2023, the management of JOOPSA established a goal to educate a specific number of civil and public servants in the government sector. Not only did the institution successfully achieve this target, but it also exceeded expectations.
Human capacity development has become an essential element under Governor Obaseki’s administration. The rationale is clear: a well-equipped workforce, often considered the engine of government, is crucial for the overall improvement of the system, as the two are interdependent.
The development of human capacity encompasses both theoretical knowledge and digital training. Every category of workers within the system has been educated on the use of computers and other modern technological devices. This has led to the implementation of a fully paperless governance system in Edo, which has been in operation since September 2023.
Moreover, a noteworthy achievement of the administration lies in the timely disbursement of salaries and pensions. This aspect should not be underestimated, as the administration consistently meets its commitment to pay workers’ salaries, pensions, and gratuities without any defaults.
The prompt payment of salaries serves as a motivating factor, keeping workers attentive to fulfilling their assigned roles and responsibilities promptly. Similarly, the timely disbursement of pensions provides significant support and relief to pensioners, offering them the financial assistance they deserve after years of dedicated service.
The Obaseki-led administration unfolds like an engaging narrative, where each commitment seamlessly links to the next, forming an unending tale of accomplishments. This interwoven storyline highlights the governor’s commendable efforts, deserving a collective round of applause for the significant strides made in uplifting the lives of the people of Edo State.
