Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has revealed that his monthly salary of ₦503,000 is significantly lower than the ₦900,000 earned by Permanent Secretaries in the state, a difference of nearly 79 percent. The governor made the disclosure during the inauguration of 12 four-bedroom terraced duplexes and the handover of 12 official vehicles to newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in Asaba on Thursday.
Governor Explains Pay Rise for Permanent Secretaries
According to a report by The Punch, Oborevwori explained that the state government raised the salaries of Permanent Secretaries after they complained that some directors were earning nearly the same amount. The governor stated that his administration has prioritised the welfare of civil servants since taking office, pointing to several ongoing schemes in the state.
Oborevwori noted that 302 beneficiaries have so far received support under the Public Officers' Vehicle Loan Scheme, while 119 people have accessed the Public Officers' Housing Loan Scheme. The state has also supplied farm inputs to civil servants interested in farming, both to generate additional income and to support food security.
Training and Minimum Wage Implementation
The governor added that 450 senior management staff were sponsored through a seven-weekend training programme delivered in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria. He also said Delta State was among the first in Nigeria to implement the national minimum wage, after consultations between the Head of Service, the Commissioner for Information, and the Nigeria Labour Congress led to a decision to pay the new wage in full.
On the appointment of 12 Permanent Secretaries in May, Oborevwori said the move was deliberate, ensuring that every local government area in Delta State now has a Permanent Secretary within the civil service structure.
Governor Warns Against Misconduct
Oborevwori used the occasion to warn civil servants and political appointees against absenteeism, nepotism, bribery, corruption, and wasteful conduct. He called on occupants of the newly inaugurated duplexes and others living in government quarters to take responsibility for the maintenance, security, and cleanliness of the facilities.
Delta State's civil service reforms, including the salary adjustments and welfare schemes, aim to improve productivity and morale among public servants, with the governor emphasising accountability and efficiency in government operations.
