The Ondo State Forum of Permanent Secretaries has lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers in the state’s public service.

Chairman of the Forum, Mr. Bunmi Alade, gave the commendation, during the annual get-together and send-off ceremony held in honour of retired Permanent Secretaries in the state.

Alade said, “Your Excellency, it is no news that your financial commitment to security, health, education, infrastructural development, sports, among others, in recent times, has been remarkable.

“Your dedication to staff welfare, especially in the prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements, has been second to none.”

He, however, called for an upward review of allowances for Permanent Secretaries in the state and appealed to Governor Aiyedatiwa to fast-track the procurement of official vehicles for members who have yet to benefit from the earlier distribution exercise.

It will be recalled that Governor Aiyedatiwa distributed official vehicles to Permanent Secretaries on 19 October 2023. Subsequently, a number of new Permanent Secretaries were appointed after the distribution and have not yet received the vehicles.

“Your Excellency, we are aware that you have already approved the procurement of official vehicles for those appointed after the October 2023 distribution. Sir, the taste of the pudding is in the eating.

“These colleagues are eagerly looking forward to the day they will receive their keys from you. “Ireti pipe a maa fi okan saare”, perfect hope makes the heart happy.”

Alade also raised the issue of furniture allowance, stating it is a key benefit that should distinguish Permanent Secretaries from other cadres.

“With all due respect, the current take-home of a Permanent Secretary in Ondo State is not significantly higher than that of a Grade Level 14 officer in the medical cadre, even though Permanent Secretaries oversee officers in that cadre.

“I humbly appeal to Your Excellency to look into this matter, as our members count on your magnanimity.”

He urged his colleagues to reciprocate the government’s goodwill with dedication and diligence in their service.

“In the same spirit, I want to urge all Permanent Secretaries to remain committed and passionate about their duties. Let us continue to apply due care and skill in our responsibilities.

“This is a time to deploy emotional intelligence in our relations with subordinates and the public.

“We must embrace the ‘O dātiwá, O d’irorun’ ‘Our Ease’ agenda and leave no stone unturned in pursuing the administration’s vision. To whom much is given, much is expected.”

In his remarks, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa commended the Permanent Secretaries for their dedication and contributions toward a better Ondo State.

“To all of you, your service and commitment to the growth and development of our state have been truly invaluable,” he said.

“Your wealth of experience and unwavering dedication have shaped our public service and enabled new institutions to grow and impact lives positively.

“Your efforts have left a lasting mark on our state’s progress. Today, we celebrate you and express our deepest gratitude for your years of selfless service.

“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from this esteemed forum. Being celebrated by those who have given their lives to public service is a powerful testament to the progress we’ve made in building synergy between the grassroots and the political class.

“I accept this honour not just as a personal accolade, but as a reflection of our collective strides in advancing the welfare of our people.”

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening public institutions, investing in human capital, and fostering an environment that drives growth and innovation.

“Our administration remains focused on creating opportunities for all citizens and ensuring that Ondo State stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and prosperity.

“We acknowledge the vacuum left by the retiring officers, but rest assured, we hold this forum in high esteem and value your contributions to achieving our East Seven-Point Development Agenda.

“Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for Ondo State, one anchored in progress, prosperity, and the collective well-being of our people.”