Edo State: Need To Transform The Public Service

T he need to rejig public service delivery for effective and smooth running of government activities penultimate week, came to the fore in a determined effort by the Edo State Government to change the narrative in the public sector of the state.

This determination saw the establishment of the ‘John  Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, (JOOPSA).

The director general of the centre, Imuwahen Ajoonu, said the academy is committed to driving public service transformation, and aimed at becoming the premier learning destination for public sector in Nigeria.

Ajoonu noted that the academy, which symbolises the commitment to equipping and empowering the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving Nigeria, was berthed by the Obaseki led administration to meet the demand of contemporary society.

The DG listed factors that propelled the urgency of public service transformation to include technological advancements, evolving citizens expectations as well as citizen-centre services.

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Ajoonu equally disclosed that as part of efforts to meet the proposed target of training 10, 000 workers before the end of the year, 5, 000 employees from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, in addition to over 5, 000 trained so far, will soon be equipped with digital skills, leadership, public service fundamentals and soft skills.

“The role of the public service in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting societal expectations, and complex global challenges has become more crucial than ever before. The effective functioning of government bodies and institutions directly impacts the well being of societies, economies and the overall progress of nations.

“Recognising this need for continuous improvement and adaptation, the concept of public service transformation has gained prominence with institutions like the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy taking centre stage in facilitating this evolution.

She said the establishment of the academy stands as a testament to its commitment in nurturing the next generation of public servants.

Former governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, who spoke at the event of the launching, disclosed that his refusal to compromise as permanent secretary in the Federal Civil Service during the military regime led to his early retirement at the age of 48 years.

Oyegun commended the governor for his developmental strides in the state and transformation of the State Civil/Public Service, calling on them to be committed, dedicated and upright in their service.

“Today, I am emphatically proud. I am proud that my name has been associated with an institution of intense possibility. Naming this great idea after me is considered the peak of my civil and public service career and I thank the governor for this honour.

“I am very aware of the transformational drive going on in the state, and also noticed the various hubs established by this Obaseki-led administration. It shows that the governor is preparing the state for the future.”

Governor Obaseki also said that the academy was built to transform public and civil service delivery and bridge the knowledge gap of our public servants.