The former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Winifred Oyo-Ita has described Nigeria as a country richly endowed with enormous potential, capable of driving national growth and development.
Oyo-Ita stated this in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, south-south Nigeria during a family gathering organised to formally celebrate her retirement from the Federal Civil Service.
Speaking with journalists while surrounded by her grandchildren, cousins and others, the former Head of Service thanked God for His faithfulness throughout her years in public service and expressed joy at reuniting with family members and loved ones in her home state.
Reflecting on difficult moments and the need for perseverance, Oyo-Ita advised Nigerians to remain patient and steadfast in faith, stressing that trust in God and the nation’s institutions remained important.
On the nation’s political climate as preparations intensify for another election cycle, Oyo-Ita called for peaceful conduct among political actors and supporters, urging Nigerians to embrace unity irrespective of political differences.
She said, “We are in an election year and I think we should all be very peaceful and prayerful. This is a wonderful country, it is a great country, we have a lot of potentials.”
Atmosphere of Peace
She urged citizens to support whoever eventually emerges victorious at the polls, noting that national progress could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.
Speaking on the role of the Civil Service in governance, Oyo-Ita described public servants as the “engine room” for implementing government policies and programmes.
According to her, “more attention should be given to the welfare of civil servants to motivate them for greater productivity.’
“I believe that more should be done for civil servants to encourage them more on welfare. I am happy to see that recently the Nigerian government approved increase in allowances and the salary structure. So, I think this should continue,” she urged.
The former Head of Service also advised civil servants across the country to remain committed to duty and continue contributing their quota towards national development.
On the lessons learnt while in service, Oyo-Ita stressed the need for Nigerians to trust the judiciary and avoid rushing to conclusions on national issues.
