Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has affirmed that his administration is committed to sustaining a culture of professionalism and meritocracy within the state’s civil service.
He pledged to continue the implementation of robust welfare programmes for workers.
He spoke at the 2025 Ekiti State Public Service Forum and Award of Excellence Ceremony at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti.
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Oyebanji, who was represented by his Deputy, Monisade Afuye, stated that the undue politicisation of the service harbours a danger that could lead to mediocrity and undermine the capacity of workers to perform optimally.
The governor credited the strong support from civil servants for his administration’s success in achieving its vision of developing the state, adding that productivity is only enhanced when the service prioritises merit over mediocrity in appointments and postings.
He noted that the workers’ solid backing is a direct reciprocation of the government’s commitment to their welfare, which includes the prompt payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities, cooperative deductions, and the timely implementation of promotions.
Oyebanji assured workers that his government will continue to allow them to operate without political interference, emphasising that professionalism remains the hallmark of an effective and efficient civil service.
“We are not going to consider politics in appointing people to positions. We are not going to encourage any action that can undermine your capacity to deliver”, he stated.
Highlighting his administration’s financial commitment to workers’ welfare, the governor disclosed that approximately N14.6 billion has been paid in gratuity over three years, while about N25 billion has been spent on monthly pension payments.
The Head of Service, Folakemi Olomojobi, praised Oyebanji for investing adequately in the service without requiring lobbying, noting that the governor has placed a high value on workers’ welfare and initiated reforms that have fortified the service.
She urged civil servants to make sacrifices and shun corrupt practices.
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Panellists at the event, including former Heads of Service, were unanimous in describing Oyebanji as a reformer and a supporter of civil servants, asserting that the state civil servants are highly competitive in diligence and intellectual acumen.
The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, traditional rulers, and top government officials.
