Yobe State, Governor Hon. Mai Mala Buni, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence by the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), in recognition of his visionary leadership and exceptional commitment to human capital development and public service transformation.
Speaking at the event, the Yobe State Head of Service, who represented the Governor, described the award as a well-deserved honour for a leader whose administration continues to prioritize the welfare and capacity building of civil servants
He highlighted Governor Buni’s numerous reforms and initiatives that have redefined the state’s public service, including prompt payment of salaries, provision of affordable housing, payment of furniture allowances, and distribution of welfare materials to enhance workers’ productivity and morale.
The Head of Service further noted that Governor Buni’s recent clearance of all outstanding gratuity liabilities to retired civil servants stands as a remarkable gesture of compassion and dedication to the workforce.
He added that the administration has embarked on massive recruitment and capacity-building programmes, both within and outside the country, to reposition the Yobe State Civil Service for greater efficiency and professionalism.
Also speaking, the Yobe State Focal Person on Training and Succession Planning, Ibrahim Bulama Yusuf, disclosed that Governor Buni directed the establishment of a succession plan and training guide document, and the appointment of a Focal Person on Training and Succession Planning—measures that have greatly enhanced professionalism and continuity within the civil service.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to continuous learning and growth, noting that 34 Permanent Secretaries recently completed advanced training at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), while 149 civil servants are currently undergoing training at ASCON, Badagry.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Funke Femi Adepoju, Director General of ASCON, commended Governor Buni’s visionary leadership and investment in human capital, describing Yobe State as a pacesetter in civil service transformation.
She also noted that, Yobe recorded the highest number of participants in ASCON’s training history, underscoring the administration’s strong commitment to workforce development.
She reiterated ASCON’s dedication to serving as a National Reform Accelerator, promoting experiential and results-oriented learning as a foundation for effective governance across Nigeria.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Alhaji Abas Isa Bizi, Permanent Secretary, Manpower Development, described the recognition as a celebration of Yobe State’s dedication to excellence in human capital development.
He expressed appreciation to ASCON for honouring Governor Buni, affirming that the award reflects the impact of visionary leadership and sustained investment in people—the greatest asset of any government.
