Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called for the strengthening of the civil service in south-west Nigeria as a crucial pathway to sustainable regional development.
The governor made the appeal on Saturday at the 10th Quarterly General Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ARHOSPS), South-West, held in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
Adeleke stated that a stronger civil service serves as an engine for effective governance, better policy implementation, and regional progress, emphasising that the south-west could achieve more with a professional and efficient civil service.
He noted that worldwide, development is driven by sound policies, efficient institutions, and disciplined implementation, nurtured by a functional and professional civil service.
According to him, the focus of ARHOSPS’ meeting on civil service management and good governance was timely, stressing that it directly addresses the development challenges confronting the region.
Adeleke said, “The South West cannot achieve its full potential without a civil service that is professional, ethical, innovative and people-centred. The civil service is the heart of every government, and its workers serve as the engine that makes government activities move in the direction of development.”
Also Read: Osun Government Enhances Economy With New Road Projects
The Governor urged the association to continue offering their guidance and insights on civil service management, noting that their experience remains valuable even after retirement.
“Many of you gathered here today were central to building these foundations during your years in office. Your experiences shaped systems that continue to serve our people across the region,” he said.
The Chairman of Osun ARHOSPS, A. F. Olatoye, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the continued advancement of the civil service and the south-west region at large.
He explained that the association was established in Osun State not only to cater to the welfare of its members but also to contribute to the growth and development of the civil service in the state.
“The Osun State Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries came into existence on 21st May 2009 with the primary objective of promoting the welfare of its members and advancing the continuous growth and development of the Osun State civil service, which is the immediate constituency of all members of the Association.”
Olatoye commended the Osun State government for maintaining a cordial relationship with the association, noting that collaboration between serving and retired public officers remains vital for effective governance and sustainable development.
Governor Ademola Adeleke was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the Osun State Government, Teslim Igbalaye.