Strengthen workforce, uphold loyalty – Gov Umo Eno to new HoS

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has directed the newly appointed Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Elsie Anietie Peters, to make capacity building and continuous training of civil servants a top priority.

He said strengthening the skills and professionalism of the workforce is necessary for the success of his administration and the ARISE Agenda.

Speaking at her inauguration at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, the Governor described the Civil Service as a critical pillar of government operations.

He expressed confidence that under Mrs. Peters’ leadership, the system would be more efficient, committed and aligned with the goals of his administration.

Governor Eno, who has earned recognition as one of the most workers-friendly leaders in the country, reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare.

He said salaries and pensions have continued to be paid regularly, and most agreements reached with labour have been fulfilled.

He highlighted the progress made in clearing the backlog of gratuities inherited from the previous administration.

According to him, the N110 billion arrears from 2012 to May 2023 have been significantly reduced, with over N75.2 billion already paid.

He said N1.3 billion was recently released, clearing the backlog up to March 2021.

The Governor thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting states with funds to carry out essential responsibilities.

Governor Eno congratulated the new Head of Service, saying her experience and background have prepared her to lead a Civil Service driven by loyalty, discipline and dedication to the ARISE Agenda.

He advised all government appointees to remain faithful to their responsibilities, stressing that loyalty is a mandatory requirement.

Quoting Matthew 6:24, he warned those trying to serve “two masters” to desist, saying no one in government should work against the administration.

“Everybody may not agree with us, but what we will not accept is for someone to be in government and still fight the government.”

“Anyone not ready to show loyalty is free to leave,” he said. Governor Eno also cautioned those trying to disrupt the peace in the state, insisting they would meet strong resistance.

He appreciated the immediate past Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for aligning the Civil Service with the state’s governance philosophy and strengthening ICT-driven reforms.

After her swearing-in, Mrs. Elsie Peters thanked God and the Governor for the opportunity.

She pledged to build a Civil Service that meets global standards and serves the state efficiently.

The event was attended by senior government officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Chief Assam Assam; APC Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo; Senator Effiong Bob; former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere; and Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson.

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