The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, has visited the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to unveil and discuss the Edo State Public Service Retooling and Enhancement Programme, also known as Edo-PREP.
During his visit to the Agriculture Hub, Dr. Okungbowa emphasized the importance of building synergy and unity among staff for improved productivity across the state’s civil and public service. He explained that Edo-PREP is designed to strengthen leadership, staff engagement, and professionalism while improving overall service delivery within the Edo State Public and Civil Service.
He encouraged staff of the Ministry to share ideas and provide feedback that would enhance proficiency within the service. According to him, the concerns and challenges raised by the ministry’s staff would be addressed accordingly by the State Government.
Speaking on the structure of the programme, Dr. Okungbowa disclosed that Edo-PREP consists of thirty-five modules, each led by a Permanent Secretary or Head of Agency to ensure full ownership and effective implementation.
He stated, “The Bureau of Public Service Reforms will institutionalize and sustain ongoing reform efforts beyond the current administration. The mentorship framework prioritizes leadership development and staff well-being. The wellness and fitness modules focus on emotional intelligence, mental health, and the overall well-being of workers.”
Dr. Okungbowa further announced plans for the establishment of a State Local Government Joint Service Council aimed at bridging the gap between the two tiers of government. He noted that the council would promote coordinated development, maintain uniform growth, strengthen collaboration, and prevent disconnection in the collective reform efforts across the state.
Highlighting the role of digital transformation, the Head of Service revealed a proposal for a digital Public Service Library that would serve as a knowledge hub and learning platform for civil and public servants. “We want to create an environment where innovation is not only encouraged but also celebrated,” he said.
He also mentioned that the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Professor Omorodion Ikponwosa, would serve as the patron of the programme.
On workers’ welfare, Dr. Okungbowa commended the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his continuous commitment to staff welfare. He said the governor had shown genuine concern for workers through prompt payment of salaries and regular promotions. “The Governor understands that a motivated workforce is the key to efficient service delivery,” he added.
During an interactive session, Dr. Okungbowa urged public servants to embrace loyalty as a fundamental value of the service. He said, “A civil servant must be loyal to the government of the day and serve with passion and dedication.”
He also appreciated the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Public Service Negotiation Council (JNC) for partnering with his office in advancing the Governor’s vision for the civil and public service in Edo State.
In his remarks, the newly appointed Commissioner for Livestock Development, Professor Omorodion Ikponwosa, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his appointment and thanked the Head of Service for visiting the Agriculture Hub. He also praised the Governor for introducing the Edo-PREP initiative, noting that it would create synergy between the Office of the Head of Service and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to support the Governor’s SHINE agenda.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Sunday Osayande, appreciated Dr. Okungbowa for the visit. He described it as a refreshing innovation that would strengthen the bond between leadership and the workforce while promoting transparency in public service. He pledged continued collaboration with the Head of Service in implementing the reforms introduced under the Edo-PREP initiative.