By Joy Salami
The commitment of the Kogi State Government to the welfare and professional growth of its civil servants took center stage at the 7th Annual Public Lecture of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) in Lokoja.
The event highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to empower its workforce through training and improved working conditions.
Speaking at the lecture, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, FCA, the Head of Civil Service (HOS) in Kogi State, emphasised the importance of continuous learning and professional development.
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He described the state government’s dedication to training as a significant step toward enhancing productivity and service delivery.
“It is Governor Ahmed Ododo’s plan that all civil servants in Kogi State receive training to update their knowledge and skills.We are committed to ensuring that you perform better than ever before.” Evinemi further added.
He urged workers to embrace the core principles of civil service, accountability, professionalism, loyalty, and efficiency and to apply what they learned during the training.
The governor’s approval of the N72,500 minimum wage was also highlighted as a reflection of his administration’s concern for workers’ welfare. Evinemi assured the workforce that additional measures to support their growth and well-being were underway, including further training programs.
The public lecture, themed “Rethinking Appraisals: Focusing on Employee Growth and Well-being in Nigeria Work Force,” offered insights into the need for better appraisal systems and employee-centered practices. Dr. Isa Aminu, Chairman of the CIPM Kogi State branch, pointed out that traditional appraisal methods have often fallen short of bringing out the best in workers.
“This initiative is about motivating employees and improving their psychological well-being to achieve synergy between management and staff,” Aminu explained. He also encouraged workers to pursue professional certifications, noting the importance of building a skilled workforce in the state.
The Guest Lecturer, Prof. Inyokwe Otinche of Federal University Lokoja, emphasized the need for regular training, appraisals, and performance-based rewards. According to him, creating a conducive work environment is key to achieving organizational growth and ensuring optimal performance from employees.
Participants at the event, including senior civil servants, expressed gratitude for the training. An Assistant Director, Mrs. Mary Alhassan said the program had significantly improved their understanding of how to add value to the civil service.
“The knowledge gained from this training will enhance our efficiency and contributions to the system,” she said.
The event concluded with an Award of Excellence presented to Mr. Elijah Evinemi by the CIPM, recognizing his leadership and dedication to elevating the civil service in Kogi State.
This lecture and the ongoing reforms underscore Kogi State’s drive toward creating a professional and motivated workforce, positioning the civil service for greater effectiveness and impact.
