The Yobe State government has taken a significant step towards institutionalizing a more resilient and effective civil service with the commencement of a two-day implementation workshop focused on the Succession Plan and Training Guide.
Declaring the workshop open in Kano, the Yobe State Head of Service, Alhaji Tongan Betara Bularafa, praised the commitment of Governor Mai Mala Buni, for his ongoing efforts to reposition the civil service through structured capacity building and policy frameworks.
A statement issued by the Chief Information officer, Office of the Head of Service Alhassan Sule Mamudo said Bularafa stressed the importance of preparing the civil service for transitions arising from voluntary resignations, incapacitations, or retirements.
“A credible civil service must be ready for change without losing momentum. Succession planning is not just a necessity as it is a safeguard for continuity, efficiency, and effective service delivery,” he stated.
He acknowledged that Yobe State currently faces an acute challenge in replacing retiring civil servants, a gap he said could undermine service quality if not addressed urgently.
“The time has come to institutionalize a robust succession plan. If we fail to plan, we plan to fail,” he warned.
The Head of Service revealed that motivational incentives would soon be introduced to boost performance and reward excellence across the service.
These would include recognition for hard work, punctuality, loyalty, and discipline.
“Furthermore, participation in future workshops and training will be strictly based on merit and individual performance.”
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the workshop, describing it as a rare opportunity to be better equipped for the task of implementing a sustainable succession plan that will enhance governance and development across the state.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Alhaji Dr. Bukar Kilo, lauded the Governor’s dedication to human capital development, describing it as “a source of pride and joy to all Yobeans.”
Earlier, the Lead Consultant, Dr. Madu Uba, expressed appreciation to the Head of Service for his consistent support and the cooperation of civil servants throughout the execution of the project.
The workshop is expected to produce a framework that ensures seamless leadership transition and promotes a culture of excellence within Yobe State’s public service.
