Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the state’s civil service into a model of excellence through reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and capacity. Speaking at the 2024 Public Service Forum and Award ceremony, held on Monday as part of his administration’s second-anniversary celebrations at the State Secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji presented N42 million in cash prizes to 82 outstanding civil servants.
Governor Oyebanji praised the harmonious relationship between the state government and labor unions, crediting their cooperation for a productive working environment. He called for strikes to remain a last resort, pledging to strengthen the civil service to better serve citizens. The governor promised that ongoing reforms would include regular training and the introduction of service goals to improve public sector performance.
On the issue of implementing the national minimum wage, Oyebanji assured workers that his administration would comply with the law, noting that any delays were due to efforts to ensure all sectors, including pensioners, benefit simultaneously.
Expressing appreciation for the dedication of Ekiti workers, Oyebanji acknowledged, “Despite limited resources, you have continued to deliver on your assignments, and this is why we are committed to scaling up performance rewards each year.” He urged workers to maintain their trust in labor leaders, emphasizing the value of dialogue and transparency in labor relations.
The Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, commended the governor for his steadfast support, particularly in the timely payment of salaries and provision of loans for civil servants. Labor leaders also lauded Oyebanji for his commitment to employee welfare, which they said has helped alleviate pressures on public servants.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, labor leaders, and civil servants, including Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye and Speaker of the House of Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye.
