From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State Government has significantly enhanced the Civil/Public Service, bringing it to a higher level, according to the State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni.
In a statement issued in Ibadan on Monday, the Oyo State capital, Mrs. Oni revealed that the current administration has sponsored civil servants for training programmes at both national and international levels. She highlighted courses at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), Abuja. Additionally, short-term training programmes in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Senegal have been provided to enhance the intellectual and administrative skills of civil servants.
Mrs. Oni further stated that Governor Seyi Makinde introduced an annual merit award to recognise and reward outstanding employees.
“When Governor Makinde assumed office in 2019, he noted that civil servants’ salaries were low and pledged to improve them. He has fulfilled this promise, making Oyo State’s civil servants among the best-paid in the federation,” she said.
She also described Governor Makinde as a “worker-friendly governor” who prioritises civil servants’ welfare. While some states have implemented a minimum wage of ₦70,000, Oyo State has set the bar higher by approving a minimum wage of ₦80,000, benefiting all state workers since January 2025.
Additionally, the governor has increased housing and car loan provisions for civil servants.
In a groundbreaking move, Oni said the governor approved the long-overdue promotion of qualified civil servants from Grade Level 16 to Grade Level 17, which has been in effect since January 2020.
Mrs. Oni noted that the present administration has appointed 45 Permanent Secretaries across key sectors such as Mainstream Administration, Education, Health, and Local Government Service. This measure, she explained, ensures efficient governance at the grassroots level and enhances service delivery to the people of Oyo State.
Furthermore, she emphasised that Governor Makinde has consistently paid pensions and gratuities and has continued the tradition of paying a 13th-month salary to both active and retired workers. Additionally, the governor has increased hazard allowances for Oyo State Fire Service personnel and extended the same benefit to officers of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Agency to optimise their performance.
Mrs. Oni encouraged civil servants across the state to remain committed to their duties and contribute to the overall development of Oyo State for the benefit of its citizens.