Aiyedatiwa Swears in 32 New Permanent Secretaries
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of 32 new permanent secretaries on Friday in Akure. During the event, he emphasized the need for improved service delivery and urged the new appointees to ensure that government policies are effectively implemented.
The Governor explained that this exercise is the third of its kind since he took office, representing a strategic effort to reorganize the state’s bureaucracy.
He noted that the goal is to achieve greater efficiency and provide better services to the people of Ondo State.
Highlighting the vital role of the civil service, Aiyedatiwa described the institution as the primary driver of government initiatives. He stated, “Political leadership may change, but the public service remains the engine room of governance.”
Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that many of the appointees had already been performing the duties of accounting officers for some time without receiving the appropriate pay. He praised their continued dedication and stated that these formal appointments serve as recognition of their hard work.
The Governor reminded the new permanent secretaries that their elevated status brings significant duties toward the state’s development. He encouraged them to “Work towards advancing our developmental blueprint and ensure that government policies translate into tangible benefits for the people.”
To further support the state’s workforce, Aiyedatiwa revealed that his administration has hired over 4,000 new employees. These recruitments span vital sectors including health, education, agriculture, law, and taxation to bolster overall administrative capacity.
The Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, also addressed the appointees, calling for unwavering loyalty and diligence in their new roles. He challenged them to prove that their selection from among many qualified candidates was the right decision for the system.
Representing his colleagues, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve the state in this high capacity. He pledged that the new permanent secretaries would strictly adhere to the established rules of the civil service.
