By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Public servants in Ekiti State have been urged to uphold strong work ethics and professionalism to enhance the efficiency of local government administration.

The call was made by the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Folorunso Olabode, during the closing ceremony of a three-day capacity-building workshop held in Ado-Ekiti.

The workshop, attended by Council Chairmen, Secretaries to Local Governments, House Leaders, Heads of Local Government Administration, Directors of Finance, and other senior officials, focused on improving administrative competence and service delivery at the grassroots level.

Hon. Olabode praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for approving the training initiative, which he described as a strategic move to strengthen local governance through knowledge sharing and skills development.

He commended the high turnout and active participation, noting that the interactive sessions offered valuable insights and practical knowledge that would significantly impact local government operations.

“This training is not just about learning new things; it’s about building relationships, expanding networks, and sharpening our capacity to deliver public services more efficiently,” Olabode said.

Acknowledging minor lapses observed during the training, the Commissioner assured participants of improved organisation and delivery in subsequent workshops.

He emphasised that the knowledge gained must translate into visible improvements in local government management.

Presenting certificates to participants, Hon. Olabode expressed appreciation for the consultants’ professionalism, the quality of the lectures, and the materials provided.

He encouraged participants to apply the insights acquired to their daily administrative duties and to seek clarification on any areas requiring further understanding.

In her remarks, the lead consultant, Mrs Oluwaseyi Macaulay, stressed that the training was designed to foster positive change and enhance performance across local government institutions.

She highlighted key topics covered during the workshop, including the evolution and importance of local government in nation-building, local government autonomy in Nigeria, the role of work ethics in service delivery, stress management, burnout prevention, and overall well-being.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Oye Local Government, Hon. Adesola Bamisile, expressed gratitude to the state government for organising the training.

She emphasised the importance of continuous professional development and called for regular training and retraining to sustain improvements in public service delivery.