Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary for civil servants, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare and boosting morale across the state’s public service.
The governor announced the approval during the 2026 Public Service Week Dinner and Awards Night in Asaba, where he also unveiled a threefold increase in cash prizes for outstanding civil servants.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori described the celebration as an opportunity to recognize excellence, assess the progress of the public service, and inspire greater productivity.
He noted that the event’s theme, “Reforms, Resilience and Results,” aligns with his administration’s MORE Agenda.
According to the governor, meaningful reforms can only succeed when workers are adequately motivated, well-equipped, and supported through policies that promote their welfare and professional development.
Commending the dedication and professionalism of Delta State civil servants, Oborevwori said their commitment has been instrumental in the successful implementation of government programmes across critical sectors.
Reiterating his pro-worker stance, the governor disclosed that welfare-related requests from the civil service always receive his immediate attention.
“Whenever I receive any memo concerning the welfare of civil servants, I approve it because I understand the importance of having over 60,000 workers supporting this administration,” he said.
The governor also announced that the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters have been completed and will soon be commissioned after the internal roads are tarred.
In addition, he revealed that official vehicles have been procured for the state’s 11 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries to enhance their efficiency.
On housing, Oborevwori assured workers that affordable housing remains a key priority of his administration, adding that the government will continue to pursue practical solutions and strategic partnerships to improve access to quality homes.
He further disclosed that the salaries of the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries have been increased by more than 50 percent as part of efforts to strengthen leadership within the public service.
The governor urged Permanent Secretaries and Directors to uphold integrity, professionalism, and due process, describing Permanent Secretaries as the institutional memory of government.
“You are the landlords in the system, while commissioners are tenants. Commissioners come and go, but the public service remains. Protect the system and always do the right thing,” he advised.
Congratulating the award recipients, Oborevwori assured workers that his administration would continue to prioritize their welfare while implementing reforms aimed at building a stronger, more efficient public service for the benefit of all Deltans.
Earlier, the State Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, said the 2026 Public Service Week served as a platform for reflection, professional development, institutional collaboration, and recognition of excellence.
She praised Governor Oborevwori for his consistent support for the public service, noting that the administration’s policies and interventions have significantly boosted workers’ morale and performance.
Dr. Oseji also encouraged civil servants to embrace ongoing reforms, stressing that integrity, innovation, and dedication remain essential to building an efficient and productive public service.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to exceptional civil servants.
Mr. Abuga Dennis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources was honoured as the Best Civil Servant Farmer, while Chinwe Atisele of the Hospitals Management Board and Mr. Reuben Udolu of the Ministry of Women Affairs received awards as the most punctual staff members.
The awardees received cash prizes and plaques from Governor Oborevwori in recognition of their outstanding dedication and exemplary service.
