Newly sworn-in Head of Service of Ogun State, Mr. Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka, has called on Permanent Secretaries and civil servants across the state to remain steadfast and provide unwavering support towards the successful implementation of his vision for the public service.
Saka made the appeal during separate meetings with the Body of Permanent Secretaries and staff of the Bureau of Service Matters at the Office of the Head of Service, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Addressing the Permanent Secretaries, led by the Chairman of the Body, Mrs. Lydia Fajounbo, the 21st Head of Service said his success in office would depend largely on collective commitment, teamwork and dedication from all accounting officers in the state civil service.
According to him, sustaining Ogun State’s reputation as one of the leading public services in the country requires collaboration, professionalism and a shared commitment to excellence.
“No tree can make a forest. For us to achieve the goals ahead, all hands must be on deck. I need your support, cooperation and commitment to ensure that we continue to uphold the standards of efficiency, integrity and excellent service delivery for which Ogun State is known,” he said.
Saka urged the Permanent Secretaries to continue promoting professionalism, accountability and innovation in their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), stressing that the state civil service must remain a model of effective governance and public administration.
Earlier, Mrs. Fajounbo congratulated the new Head of Service on his appointment, describing it as a reward for years of hard work, discipline and professional excellence.
She noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun had acknowledged Saka’s dedication and competence during his swearing-in ceremony, adding that members of the Body of Permanent Secretaries were fully prepared to support him in delivering on his mandate.
Mrs. Fajounbo assured the Head of Service that the Permanent Secretaries would work collectively to build on existing achievements and further strengthen the state’s public service.
“This is a collective project. We are committed to working together and providing the necessary support to ensure your success in office,” she said.
During a familiarisation meeting with staff of the Bureau of Service Matters, Saka challenged workers to contribute meaningfully to the success of his administration through diligence, punctuality and dedication to duty.
He urged staff members to see themselves as critical stakeholders in the progress of the Office of the Head of Service and the wider civil service.
“Contribute your quota to my success so that you can be proud of being part of the achievements when the time of reckoning comes. Be good ambassadors of this office and ensure that your conduct reflects the values and expectations of the public service,” he said.
The Head of Service also encouraged workers to embrace continuous learning, develop innovative administrative strategies and maintain positive attitudes in carrying out their responsibilities.
He emphasised the importance of punctuality, professionalism, effective communication and personal development, noting that civil servants must constantly improve their skills to meet the demands of modern governance.
“Make punctuality your watchword. Discharge your duties diligently and promptly. Be proactive, acquire more knowledge, remain positive and deploy innovative strategies to make your work more effective and productive,” Saka added.
The meetings concluded with special prayers offered by the Permanent Secretaries and staff members for wisdom, strength and success for the new Head of Service as he begins his tenure.
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