Be disciplined, be punctual to work, new Permanent Secretary Government House charges staff

The newly posted Permanent Secretary, Government House, Umuahia, Mr Precious Uma Okoro, has charged Government House staff to uphold discipline, punctuality, professionalism and commitment to duty for improved service delivery.

Mr Okoro, who gave the charge on Thursday, October 29, 2026, during his maiden meeting with the Government House staff, noted that the need for the workforce to align with the vision of Governor Otti to achieve his New Abia agenda.

He expressed gratitude to God for his appointment and posting to Government House and thanked Governor Alex Otti for considering him a Permanent Secretary in the civil service.

Mr. Okoro urged workers to arrive early, remain at their duty posts and avoid private business during official hours. He warned that attendance monitoring was in place, with a 70 per cent attendance threshold for salary payment.

“Government House is the seat of power, and we must set a good example for other ministries and agencies,” he said, urging staff to dress responsibly and maintain high professional standards.

The Permanent Secretary assured workers that their welfare remained a priority, and directed them to follow established communication channels while writing their applications.

He urged them to study the Public Service Rules and be guided by the rules, and announced plans for regular training and seminars, including preparatory training for officers due for promotions, especially, as government intends to introduce Computer Based Test (CBT) in the public service exams for eligible officers from Grade Level 10 and above.

“We want all of us to achieve a 100 per cent pass rate in this year’s promotion examination,” Mr. Okoro stated,” urging eligible staff to register with the Head of Administration for the planned training.

Responding on behalf of the staff, the Director of Finance, Mrs Onyedikachi Ogwo, thanked the Permanent Secretary for the meeting and pledged the full support and cooperation of the workforce to his leadership.

She assured him that the Government House staff would work with respect, discipline and obedience to achieve the goals of Government House and improve service delivery.

Present during the meeting were the members of the management and general staff of Government House, Umuahia.