The Federal Government has commended Ebonyi State’s innovative approach to rewarding excellence in public service, describing it as a shining example of responsive and people-centered governance.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this during a high-level federal delegation’s visit to Abakaliki on Friday.
The visit aimed to assess firsthand the impact of federal-state collaboration on local development, especially in the post-subsidy era.
Speaking during the tour, the Minister praised Ebonyi State’s prudent use of resources made available by the removal of the fuel subsidy.
He noted that the state had successfully translated fiscal savings into meaningful projects that directly benefit its citizens.
“This is what a listening government looks like—applying resources to priorities that the people themselves value,” Idris said.
A major highlight of the visit was the inspection of the newly completed Civil Servant Reward Estate, a pioneering project by the Ebonyi State Government aimed at honouring exemplary public service.
Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, who showcased the newly completed estate, described it as the first of its kind in the South East. The estate offers fully constructed homes – at no cost to the recipients – to outstanding teachers, civil servants, and exceptional young talents.
“When people serve with dedication, they deserve recognition and reward,” Nwifuru stated, adding that the initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to encouraging hard work and loyalty in the public sector.
Among the beneficiaries was a young Afro-basketball star, recognised for her outstanding achievements and role in putting Ebonyi on the continental sports map.
The visit is part of the federal government’s broader efforts to promote collaboration with states, ensure transparency in the use of post-subsidy funds, and amplify best practices in governance.
