Rivers Deputy Governor, Odu tasks Perm Secs on driving government transformation

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, has urged Permanent Secretaries in the state's public service to assume a more proactive role in driving government reforms and development, rather than merely performing routine administrative tasks. On the opening day of a three-day reorientation and capacity-building programme for these officials, Odu emphasized that effective public administration necessitates strategic leadership from top civil service positions to enhance efficiency and translate policies into tangible benefits for residents.

Odu called on the attendees to fully engage in the training and apply the knowledge and skills acquired to their respective ministries, departments, and agencies. She praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his commitment to strengthening the state public service, stating that ongoing capacity development would foster professionalism and improve service delivery.

Furthermore, Odu announced that the Permanent Secretaries will be inducted into the Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria (CIoD) upon completing the training, emphasizing that this provides an opportunity for them to network and learn about contemporary leadership practices.

Dr. Inyingi Brown, the Rivers State Head of Service, echoed Odu's sentiments on the significance of continuous training in boosting efficiency across the public service. Brown highlighted that the programme, organized in collaboration with the CIoD, aims to reposition Permanent Secretaries as strategic leaders who can foster innovation and effectively implement government policies.