The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have faulted the Delta State Government over the continued non-appointment of substantive Permanent Secretaries, describing the situation as unhealthy for the state’s civil service structure.
The labour unions raised the concern during the 2026 May Day celebration held at the Cenotaph in Asaba, where they said the absence of confirmed Permanent Secretaries was weakening administrative stability and undermining merit-based progression in the public service.
In a joint address, NLC Chairman, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, and TUC Chairman, Comrade Asekutu Wilson, said appointing officers merely to function in acting capacities as Permanent Secretaries was against established civil service tradition.
They warned that the practice creates uncertainty within the system, weakens institutional memory, and discourages professionalism among career officers.
According to the labour leaders, “When has lowering the bar become the standard? A civil service thrives when excellence is rewarded and leadership positions are filled transparently in line with established rules.”
They insisted that a predictable and merit-driven promotion system was essential for a strong and effective public service.
The unions called on the state government to urgently address the issue in order to restore confidence in the civil service and improve administrative efficiency.
They also urged government to prioritise workers’ welfare more broadly, including better pension administration, fair wages, and improved working conditions.
Speaking at the event, the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, said the administration remained committed to strengthening the civil service and improving workers’ welfare.
He said government was implementing measures to enhance productivity, including training programmes, recruitment, and improvements in the work environment.
Oborevwori added that the state had also cleared pension liabilities and expanded social intervention programmes aimed at supporting workers and retirees.
He assured that the administration would continue to promote a modern and efficient public service while prioritising the welfare of workers in the state.
The event was part of activities marking the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration.
