The Head of Service in Edo State, Mr. Anthony Okungbowa, has lauded Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as a transformative step in strengthening the state’s civil service through the recruitment of over one thousand cleaners.
Mr. Okungbowa gave the commendation on Monday during the official onboarding ceremony for newly recruited Grade 1 officers held at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City.
The recruits, who are to serve as cleaners across various ministries and public institutions, were formally welcomed into the state’s workforce in a ceremony marked by speeches of encouragement and applause for the governor's initiative.
According to the Head of Service, the recruitment drive marks a significant milestone in the administration’s commitment to job creation and the revitalization of the civil service structure.
“This is the most impactful recruitment exercise we have seen in recent times,” Okungbowa remarked. “Since I assumed office, the civil service has never witnessed this level of injection of new personnel. Governor Okpebholo has broken new ground by not only creating jobs but by restoring dignity to service at all levels.”
He further noted that the discontinuation of consultancy arrangements in the recruitment process signals a major policy shift towards transparency and direct engagement with the workforce.
“By ending the use of consultants in hiring processes, His Excellency has shown that he is a leader who believes in fairness, due process, and the welfare of our people,” he said. “This is not just recruitment; this is reform.”
Okungbowa charged the new intakes to take their duties seriously, emphasizing that even at entry-level positions, their services are vital to the smooth functioning of the government system.
“You are the face of the civil service. Come to work early, be committed, and serve with integrity. Let your work speak for you,” he advised.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary for Pensions, Mr. Washington Osaro, praised the administration for prioritizing capacity building and expanding access to employment.
“We are proud of what Edo State is becoming,” Osaro said. “The civil service here has become a benchmark for others across the country. This recruitment is further evidence that the governor means business.”
In his goodwill message, Dr. George Igberiase, a seasoned lecturer and retired Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, described the exercise as “a rare privilege for citizens to be absorbed into government service under such a transparent and merit-based system.”
According to him, “This is not just a job; it is a calling to serve your state. I applaud Governor Okpebholo for remembering the forgotten, for lifting people from the margins and giving them a new lease on life.”
Several of the newly recruited officers also expressed their gratitude to the state government. One of the recruits, Miss Omosede Igbinovia, said, “I never imagined I would get a chance to work for the government. This opportunity means everything to me and my family.”
Another recruit, Mr. Abdullahi Bello, added, “This job is a lifeline. I thank the governor for his kindness and for believing in us.”
The onboarding ceremony was attended by senior government officials, union leaders, and family members of the new civil servants, all of whom hailed the governor’s gesture as a bold move toward inclusive governance and economic empowerment.