Government took time to search carefully with due diligence to arrive at those appointed
By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Newly inaugurated permanent secretaries in Benue State have been advised to steer clear of partisan politics, but instead conduct themselves in a responsive and responsible manner as officers to implement the policies and programmes of the present administration in line with government’s seven point agenda.
Governor Hyacinth Alia gave the advice during the swearing-in of 13 new permanent secretaries in the state civil service held yesterday at Government House in Makurd.
Alia maintained that there had been agitations from among the civil servants as to when appointment of permanent secretaries would be announced and swear- in, adding that such agitations are normal with humans and government appreciate them.
He said he allowed some Ministries without substantive Permanent Secretaries to be covered by some key Officers, commending those people for doing well within the period by not shortchanging the system.
The governor also revealed that government took time to search carefully with due diligence to arrive at those appointed, expressing sincere appreciation to those who acted as permanent secretaries and were confirmed, adding that there is reward for hard work and resilience as recognition comes with ease.
He said Government considered the character and long years of commitment and service to the State of those appointed, affirming that his administration consulted widely to ensure that such appointments were based on cognate experience, proven integrity,track records and merit.
Alia also told the new permanent secretaries that as the Administrative Heads of their respective Ministries, they must ensure that Staff adhere to the codes of the Civil Service, maintain discipline and respect constituted authorities and urged them to brace up for the new responsibilities ahead.