-Calls for harmonised pay and grade structure across federal and state services
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the federal and state governments to harmonise structures and salaries across the nation’s civil services to ensure a stronger, more effective workforce.
Speaking at the foundation‑laying and fund‑raising ceremony for the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries’ Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, Mr. Jonathan said proper reforms would strengthen the civil service nationwide. He praised the retired permanent secretaries for the initiative and said the calibre of Bayelsa’s public service personnel compares favourably with their federal counterparts.
Recalling reforms he implemented while governor, Jonathan noted that he introduced Grade Level 17 for directors who had previously retired at Level 16, adding that similar uniformity should be adopted more broadly.
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri was represented at the event by the Head of Service, Dr. Ebiye Sawyer, who pledged state government support and commended the retired officials for their vision and dedication.
In his welcome address, the chairman of the association, King Collins Ebi Daniel, described the proposed complex as an institutional edifice to embody the legacy of public service. He said the centre will house administrative offices, event halls, conference rooms and recreational facilities.
King Daniel said the secretariat is expected to cost N500 million and be completed within two years.
The ceremony’s highlights included the formal foundation‑laying by Jonathan, a fund‑raising session and a cultural presentation by the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture.
