Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has inaugurated 12 new permanent secretaries, expressing confidence that their appointment will strengthen his administration and improve service delivery across the State.
The Governor, who continues efforts to reposition his Government after the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, urged the newly appointed officials to see their elevation as a call to selfless service rather than an avenue for personal benefit.
Fubara gave the charge on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt, where he administered the oath of office to the new permanent secretaries.
Those sworn in include Mr. Freddy Ndigbara, Mrs. Fortune Akpila, Dr. Promise Oguzie, Mrs. Ibisoye Lolomari Nwankwo, Mrs. Ibiyemibara Joseph Uzoma, Mrs. Mercy Dagogo Iboroma, Dr. Vincent Worgu Wachukwu, Mr. Ifeanyi Anthony Ogboma, Dr. Mina Gogo Jim-Jaja, Mr. Henry Uzor, Mr. Chimenum Anebo Mpi and Dr. Mina Tele Ikuru.
The oath of office was administered by the Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration) of the High Court of Rivers State, Magistrate Betty Sunny-Hart.
Addressing the new permanent secretaries, Fubara reminded them that they had reached the highest managerial level in the Rivers State Civil Service and must justify the confidence reposed in them through integrity, professionalism and unwavering loyalty to both Rivers State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I do not have any other charge. The charge is the oath you’ve taken. The oath spells it out. Do right to all – every man and woman. Do right to your State and do right to the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Fovernor said.
He stressed that the appointments were not meant for personal gain but to advance the development of the State.
“It is a call to service. You are the heads of your ministries wherever you may be sent. You are at the peak of the managerial cadre of the civil service, the highest of our service. You are at the head, so you need to do the work as somebody who is at the head.
“So, I believe that your coming on board will bring changes and effectiveness to the system. When we are done with our own, I believe that your good work will help whoever is coming to take over from us to also continue with the good work in our dear State,” he added.
The appointments come as Fubara continues rebuilding his administration following the political crisis that rocked Rivers State, a situation that has eased after his reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The Governor congratulated all 12 permanent secretaries and wished them success as they begin their new responsibilities in the service of Rivers State.