New public service rules include dismissal and prosecution for offenders
The Ondo State government has taken a firm stance against sexual harassment in the public service by introducing new extant rules that mandate both dismissal and possible criminal prosecution for any staff found guilty of such misconduct.
This development was revealed by the Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Bayo Philip, during the Annual General Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of the South-West, held on Thursday in Akure, the state capital.
Philip emphasized that the newly reviewed civil service rules reflect the state’s commitment to maintaining a modern, ethical, and professional work environment, one that meets the expectations of the public and upholds the integrity of the service.
Improved welfare for civil servants and gender-inclusive policies
In addition to the crackdown on misconduct, the revised civil service guidelines also introduce significant welfare improvements. According to Philip, maternity leave for female civil servants has been extended from three months to six months, a move that aligns with global best practices. Furthermore, a provision for two weeks of paternity leave has been added, allowing male employees to support their spouses during childbirth.
These changes are part of the state’s broader transformation agenda for the public service, now operating under a new mantra: “don’t deliver short and don’t deliver late.” The Head of Service noted that the aim is to create a performance-driven civil service that delivers high-quality output and operates efficiently in line with 21st-century standards.
Philip also shared that the state currently employs about 42,000 civil servants, with approximately 13,000 pensioners, and proudly reported that there are no outstanding promotion arrears for staff.
Calls for South-West governors to strengthen civil service
During the event, the Ondo State Chairperson of the association, Mrs. Mojisola Ajayi, called on all South-West governors to revamp the civil service in their respective states. She urged leaders to eliminate systemic dysfunction and prioritize efficiency and accountability.
Ajayi also stressed the urgent need for pension scheme reforms. According to her, many retired public servants face significant financial hardship and deserve better welfare packages after decades of service. She recommended that state governments adopt a collaborative approach similar to the South-West Security Network, known as the Amotekun Corps, to bring uniform development across various sectors.
She commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his compassionate leadership, especially in prioritizing the welfare of pensioners and implementing developmental projects across the state.
South-West blueprint for economic development unveiled
Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola, President of the South-West chapter of the association, disclosed that the group had submitted a comprehensive blueprint for economic development in the region to all six South-West governors. He thanked the governors for their support and particularly appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa’s financial contributions to the association.
He encouraged other state leaders to emulate this level of commitment to regional growth and development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa affirms commitment to public service excellence
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Segun Omojuwa, lauded the association for its role in policy formulation and nation-building. He acknowledged the crucial contributions of retired public servants and emphasized his administration’s dedication to fostering a competent and productive civil service.
“You have regularly partnered with state governments, offering your wealth of experience to help shape policies and support transformative development,” he stated.
Retired leaders urged to remain engaged in governance
Mr. Bunmi Alade, Chairman of the Ondo State Forum of Permanent Secretaries, described the gathering as inspiring. He stressed the importance of the continued involvement of retired public officials in governance, noting that their voices uphold the values of professionalism, discipline, and integrity.
He also praised the association’s vision for integration and sustainable development across the South-West.
New executive members elected to lead regional association
At the close of the AGM, the association elected new executive members to lead its South-West chapter. The new leadership includes:
-
Elder Demola Badejo (Regional President, Ogun State)
-
Elder Daniel Aina (Regional Vice President, Ekiti State)
-
Mrs. Adenike Olufadewa (Regional Secretary, Oyo State)
-
Alhaji Adekunle Adegbite (Assistant General Secretary, Ogun State)
-
Mr. Segun Olorunsogo (Regional Treasurer, Osun State)
-
Mrs. Adesunbo Abolarin (Financial Secretary, Lagos State)
-
Mrs. Juliana Folabi-Fayehun (Regional PRO, Ondo State)
-
Barrister Adeoye Popoola (Legal Officer, Osun State)
In his acceptance speech, Elder Badejo, a lawyer and retired permanent secretary, pledged to work closely with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission and the South-West Development Commission to drive the socio-economic advancement of the region.
He assured that the association would continue offering policy advice and strategic support to governments in the South-West.
