...As SSG unveils merit-based promotion system for civil servants

ABEOKUTA – The Ogun State Government has called for collective action that promotes mutual respect between the government and its workforce to further engender the needed transformation of the Public Service.

Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, made the appeal at the grand finale of the 2026 Public Service Week celebration, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

The week-long event, themed "Transforming Public Service: Advancing Innovation, Accountability, Participation, and Inclusion," served as a platform to unveil key reforms in the state's civil service.

Talabi described the theme as "more than just a slogan but a blueprint for the future," as he disclosed that the State Government has institutionalised a new objective system to identify and promote the most qualified public servants to become Permanent Secretaries, Directors General, and Heads of Agencies.

Speaking directly to the public servants, the SSG acknowledged that "change can sometimes bring uncertainty," but assured that the initiatives are "not designed to leave anyone behind."

"On the contrary, this framework is built to protect the integrity of your careers. It is designed to ensure that merit, not favouritism, is the ladder to success. By creating a level playing field, we are fostering an environment where your hard work, your innovative ideas, and your dedication are the primary drivers of your advancement," Talabi affirmed.

The State Scribe maintained that innovation in the public sector is only possible when there is mutual trust, noting that the government trusts its public servants as the engine of the state and is committed to earning their trust by being transparent about how it evaluates and rewards excellence.

He informed that it has always been the desire of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun for civil servants to become active participants in these reforms, not just observers, adding that their voices, experiences, and feedback are essential as the government modernises its systems.

"Accountability and inclusion are the hallmarks of a modern state, and by working hand-in-hand, we will ensure that our Public Service remains a beacon of professionalism and pride," the SSG said.

Talabi appreciated the resilience, expertise, and commitment of public servants across all strata to a better future for the state, encouraging them to continue serving with excellence, "knowing that your growth is our growth."

Odunayo Ogunleye

Office of the SSG