Review Civil Servants Salaries Now, Jonathan Tells FG, States

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Federal Government and states to harmonize the structures and salaries of civil servants across both levels. During the groundbreaking and fundraising event for the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries' Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, Jonathan praised the initiative, highlighting that the quality of personnel in Bayelsa's public service is comparable to that of federal counterparts.

Recalling his time as Governor, Jonathan detailed how he restructured the state civil service to create Grade Level 17 for Directors who previously retired at Level 16. He stressed the importance of constructing a dedicated secretariat for retired permanent secretaries, noting that it would benefit retirees and the public alike, while advocating for standardized civil service structures nationwide.

The Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, attending the event via the Head of Service, Dr. Ebiye Sawyer, pledged government support and commended the retired officials for their vision and commitment.

King Collins Ebi Daniel, the Chairman of the Association, emphasized the proposed complex as an institution built to honor the legacy of public service. The complex will feature administrative offices, event halls, conference rooms, and recreational areas. Expected to cost N500 million and completed in two years, the foundation was laid by Jonathan, a fund-raising session was held, and a cultural presentation was showcased by the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture.