The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, officially inaugurated thirteen new permanent secretaries on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of steering clear of partisan politics.
During the ceremony held at the government house in Makurdi, Alia encouraged the appointees to prepare themselves for the significant responsibilities that lie ahead.
He instructed them to ensure that all staff members comply with the civil service codes, maintain discipline, and show respect for established authorities.
In his remarks, the governor cautioned the new permanent secretaries against any behaviour that could potentially damage the government’s reputation, stating that those found guilty of such misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
He said, “You must avoid partisan politics and conduct yourselves as responsive and responsible officers who are duty-bound to implement policies and programmes of the administration in line with its seven-point agenda.
“Our eyes would be placed on you not to police you but to ensure that you do the right things all the time.”
Barely two weeks ago, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, approved the appointment of forty-five permanent secretaries and three executive secretaries in the state.
The appointment was disclosed in a statement released by the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, and obtained by Naijaonpoint on January 3, 2025.
The appointments, announced in a document signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, include significant changes across various sectors.
Sixteen Permanent Secretaries have been deployed into the mainstream civil service, while six new Inspectors General of Education, six Permanent Secretaries in the health sector, and seven Permanent Secretaries in the local government sector have also been appointed.
Additionally, one new Permanent Secretary has been appointed as Clerk of the House of Assembly, a new Surveyor General has been appointed, and nine new Tutors General have been named.