At the 14th edition of the Journalist Hangout titled “From Parley to Party,” held by the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Asaba, Delta State’s Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko, shared reflections on his career, challenges, and achievements.
He thanked God for enabling him to serve under both former Governor Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and the current governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. Bayoko noted that his eight-year tenure as Head of Service has been fulfilling despite the challenges, with many accomplishments along the way.
Reflecting on his career, Mr. Bayoko said, “In my twenty-four years of service to the government, I have held senior positions throughout, beginning as a director, moving to a permanent secretary, and now as Head of Service. Each day, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and fulfill my duties.”
Addressing concerns about retirees’ inclusion in the minimum wage package, Mr. Bayoko explained that retirees fall under two categories: those in the contributory pension scheme and those under the defined benefits scheme. He clarified that the contributory pension scheme covers retirees who retired after the 2007 Pension Law, while the defined benefits scheme covers those who retired earlier. He assured that retirees under the defined benefits scheme are part of the minimum wage adjustments, with “consequential adjustments” in place to ensure they benefit from increases.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, he added, has supported this by approving measures to ensure pensioners receive these adjustments along with active employees.
Regarding promotion arrears for teachers, Mr. Bayoko noted that Governor Oborevwori recently approved N5.5 billion to clear outstanding arrears, with instructions to prevent future accumulation. He acknowledged that although teacher promotions sometimes face delays, due to their large numbers and widespread placement in rural areas, steps are in place to keep promotions as timely as possible.
When asked how he would like to be remembered, Mr. Bayoko stated, “I want to leave behind a better, stronger service that upholds optimal service delivery and global best practices.”
Mr. Bayoko mentioned that the state has about 48,000 civil servants across various sectors. To address vacancies, he emphasized the strategy of “manpower rebalancing,” where staff are reassigned to cover areas with shortages rather than new recruitment. However, specific sectors like education, health, and technical fields, such as engineering and accounting, have seen targeted recruitment efforts under both Governors Okowa and Oborevwori.
On the topic of ghost workers, Mr. Bayoko described it as a shared responsibility. “It’s important for supervisors to monitor attendance closely,” he said. The state has already removed some individuals from the payroll, including those who failed to return from overseas training without permission. Mr. Bayoko stressed that the state is committed to eliminating ghost workers and holding accountable those who aid them.
When asked about the recent investigation involving former officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, accused of mismanaging funds, Mr. Bayoko confirmed that the committee had submitted its report to the governor. Following the investigation, involved officers, including the commissioner and several directors, were relieved of their duties and replaced.
Comrade Churchill Oyovwe, Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, expressed appreciation to Mr. Bayoko for attending the event and providing insight into the state’s civil service developments. He remarked, “This hangout is a platform for meaningful interaction with stakeholders. We thank the Head of Service for his dedication to improving service delivery in Delta State.”
The event highlighted the Delta State government’s commitment to addressing civil service challenges, promoting fair benefits for retirees, and ensuring transparency and accountability in state affairs.
