Being Text of a Speech by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Alhaji (Dr.) Aliyu Akwe Doma, OON (Madauchin Doma), on the Occasion of the Swearing-in of Thirteen Newly Appointed Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service, Lafia, Thursday, 21st January, 2010.

PROTOCOL:

I am pleased to welcome you all to this historic occasion of the swearing-in of 13 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in the Civil Service of Nasarawa State.

These appointments became imperative following the vacancies created by the retirement of some Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service. But beyond that, the new appointments are also meant to inject fresh blood and re-invigorate the machinery of Government, in line with our commitment to have a strong, virile and result-oriented Civil Service.

Ladies and gentlemen, the need for accelerated socio-economic development of Nasarawa State is a major preoccupation of this Administration. The role of the Civil Service, in this regard, has therefore become more crucial, considering the fact that, it is the backbone of any Government in the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes. It is against this background that we have continued to reorganize, re-energize and re-position the State Civil Service.

I need to point out that since the coming on board of this Administration, we have continued to work assiduously to transform the Service through the provision of conducive working environment; prompt payment of the enhanced salaries, wages and allowances; improved strategies for efficient service delivery; and, adequate system controls. We have also embarked on training and re-training of Civil Servants at all levels, as well as general improvement of their welfare, to ensure motivation of the Service for maximum productivity. With these measures, I expect all Civil Servants in the State to show better commitment and understanding in the performance of their duties and responsibilities, for the public good.

Let me point out that in making these appointments, careful attention was given to merit, good record and conduct, loyalty and commitment, as well as, the necessary qualifications, experience and capacity to shoulder the responsibilities required of the Office of Permanent Secretary. It is, therefore, my hope and indeed my expectation, that the appointees will justify the confidence reposed in them.

To the new Permanent Secretaries, I urge you to, at all times, uphold and promote the cherished and time-tested ethos and values of the Civil Service. You must ensure strict adherence to laid down procedures in the conduct of Government business. You should always endeavour to channel your energies and leadership towards the achievement of set goals and objectives. You should ensure that at no time would your loyalty and integrity be questioned in the performance of your duties.

You need to remember at all times that as top functionaries of Government, you are required to prove yourself worthy of your appointment and demonstrate ability in resource management and revenue generation.

In the same vein, I need to remind you that this Administration believes in the principle of collective responsibility. Accordingly, Permanent Secretaries must emphasize goal-orientation and teamwork, and give full support to the political leadership. You are, therefore, expected at all times to provide informed advice, suggestions and guidance that will assist the political heads of your respective organizations in formulating and articulating sound policies and programmes.

Ladies and gentlemen, I consider it necessary at this juncture, to draw the attention of all, to the fact that Permanent Secretaries are career Civil Servants whose duties and responsibilities are guided by Service regulations and procedures. They do, therefore, require the understanding and cooperation of all and sundry in the discharge of their responsibilities. Let us, therefore, avoid the habit of distracting and misguiding them, and indeed, all other public officers, through undue pressures and unbecoming demands for patronage.

On this note, I congratulate the new Permanent Secretaries for your well deserved appointments and for reaching the peak of your career in the State Civil Service. I trust that you will all endeavour to make positive impact in our collective task of providing efficient service delivery, towards the achievement of accelerated development of the State. You must not forget to remember that your actions or inactions will determine your place in the history of the public service of Nasarawa State.

Thank you all and God bless.