Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called for continuous reforms, strategic workforce development and increased digital transformation within Nigeria’s public service to ensure government institutions remain effective in addressing modern challenges.
Fubara made the call on Thursday during the opening ceremony of the 48th Meeting of the National Council on Establishments (NCE), held in Port Harcourt, which was attended by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and heads of service from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The governor said rapid technological changes, evolving workplace demands and rising expectations from citizens require a public service that is flexible, technology-driven, accountable and focused on delivering excellence.
He stressed that government institutions should not only respond to changes but should also take the lead by introducing policies that encourage professionalism, innovation, integrity and strong performance.
According to Fubara, the public service remains the backbone of governance because it serves as the channel through which government policies are implemented, development programmes are executed and essential services are provided to citizens.
He noted that no administration can achieve sustainable development without a capable, motivated and efficient workforce.
The governor urged members of the National Council on Establishments to use the meeting to develop practical and future-focused recommendations that would improve institutional capacity, strengthen transparency, enhance professionalism and increase productivity within Nigeria’s public sector.
Fubara highlighted some reforms carried out by his administration in Rivers State, including efforts to improve workers’ welfare, productivity and professional growth.
He stated that the state had implemented a minimum wage above the national benchmark, maintained timely payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities and Christmas bonuses, while also restoring regular promotion processes for civil servants.
He added that the renovation and modernisation of the State Secretariat Complex was at an advanced stage, describing the project as part of efforts to provide workers with a safer, technology-enabled and more productive working environment.
The governor said these initiatives were based on the belief that well-supported public servants would contribute more effectively to good governance and improved service delivery.
Fubara also praised the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, for introducing reforms aimed at improving professionalism, innovation and performance management within the Federal Civil Service.
He expressed optimism that discussions from the 48th NCE meeting would help shape the future of public administration in Nigeria, strengthen government institutions and improve the effectiveness of governance nationwide.
