By Rabiu Doma, Nasarawa
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Speech Delivered by His Excellency, Umaru Tanko Almakura, Governor of Nasarawa State, on the occasion of the Swearing-in of Newly Appointed Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service, Lafia: Wednesday, 3rd July, 2013.
PROTOCOL
It is with gratitude to Almighty God that I welcome you all to this occasion of the swearing-in of the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service.
I appreciate the presence of eminent personalities, friends, relations and well-wishers who are here to share the joy of the moment with the appointees. Indeed, your presence is a testimony of your continuous partnership and support to this Administration.
Ladies and gentlemen, you would recall that consequent upon vacancies created as a result of the retirement of some Permanent Secretaries in the State Public Service, it became imperative for Government to appoint five new ones to fill the vacuum. This is part of Government resolve to reposition the Civil Service for enhanced performance and higher productivity. It is also in recognition of the fact that the Civil Service is the nerve centre of Government activities.
Realizing the strategic position which the Civil Service occupies, Government was meticulous in the selection of our new Permanent Secretaries. In this regard, due diligence was applied taking into account the commitment, dedication, hard work, competence, sacrifice and, above all, loyalty of the appointees.
My dear appointees, I congratulate you on your well deserved elevation. There is no doubt that your appointments have come at the right time, considering the fact that this Administration is focused on a massive transformation of our dear State. I believe that with your antecedents and pedigree, you will exert more energy in the implementation of Government policies and programmes aimed at the socio-economic development of Nasarawa State. I trust that you will justify the confidence of Government reposed in you.
It is pertinent to state that, as accounting officers, it behooves on you to acquaint yourselves with the Financial Regulations and Public Procurement Act. You must endeavour to ensure budgetary discipline and prudence in the management of public resources. Accordingly, I urge you to eschew corruption in all its ramifications in line with the posture of this Administration. It is only in this way that scarce Government resources will be judiciously utilized and channeled towards provision of basic infrastructure for the benefit of oaur people.
In the same vein, I call on you to quickly settle down and ensure harmonious working relationship with your political heads. I believe that it is only by working in unison that we would be able to realize the development objectives of this Administration
On this note, I once again congratulate you all on your elevation as Permanent Secretaries in the Nasarawa State Public Service. I trust that you will adhere to the oath of office that you have taken and ensure strict adherence to the provisions of the Civil Service Rules and Regulations in the discharge of your responsibilities.
Thank you and God bless.
