The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has emphasized the critical role of a competent and efficient civil service in rebuilding Nigeria.
Speaking at a strategy retreat organized by the BRACED Commission, he highlighted the need to attract the best minds and hands to public service.
The two-day retreat, held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy in Benin City, brought together Heads of Service from Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta States. The goal was to foster excellence and equip participants with the skills necessary to develop an action plan for regional betterment.
Governor Obaseki underscored the importance of rebuilding the country through robust institutions and effective bureaucracy at all levels—local, state, and federal. He recalled his university days, when the Federal Civil Service and other state services actively recruited top talent. According to him, this practice contributed to the success of the public sector.
He stated, “To rebuild Nigeria, we must attract the best minds back to the civil service. There is no shortcut. Treating them well and offering competitive compensation are essential. We want the best to work for us, just as they would in private companies or other institutions.”
Capacity building remains a priority for the state. The governor emphasized that hiring and retention practices play a crucial role in the service’s effectiveness. He added, “We have a roadmap—a set of six thematic pillars—to achieve our goals. Despite the challenges we faced upon taking office, we focused on fixing what was broken rather than complaining.”
Governor Obaseki’s administration has delivered on promises, including automated processes, workflow improvements, and capacity-building initiatives for public servants. These efforts have transformed the Edo State Civil and Public Service.
Guest lecturer Prof. Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, praised the governor’s positive reforms. He stressed that rebuilding Nigeria hinges on re-energizing the civil and public services—an engine vital for the nation’s progress.
Other dignitaries present at the retreat included former Edo State Governor Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Ambassador Joe Keshi (Director General of the BRACED Commission), Dr. Anthony Okungbowa Esq. (Edo State Head of Service), and various Permanent Secretaries and agency heads from the South-South zone.
