Sokoto gov swears in new commissioners, SAs

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the development of a new Sokoto State.

The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday at the state Government House during the swearing-in of a new set of commissioners, Special Advisers and Permanent Secretaries.

He said the swearing-in opened a new chapter in his administration’s commitment towards achieving its nine-point agenda for the state.

“As we all know, commissioners are the political heads in their respective ministries and also members of the State Executive Council, the highest decision-making body of the state.

“I’m optimistic that all of you are chosen on merit, based on your track records which prove your integrity with vast experience in all human endeavors.

“You are expected to deploy your rich experiences in running the affairs of your respective ministries in the overall development of the state. You should therefore live above board.

“The Special Advisers are equally a veritable tool in the effective management of their respective Departments or agencies. They also serve as the political heads of wherever they are assigned.

“On the other hand, Permanent Secretaries are the heads of the administration and Accounting officers of their various Ministries, Departments and Agencies. It is to be noted that this position makes the Permanent Secretaries an important tool for the success of any administration,” he said.

The governor retreated that all the appointees were appointed with the expectation that they would deliver.

“As heads of your MDAs in your respective places of assignment, a lot is expected from you. You must ensure transparency, accountability, and good governance at every level of your transactions.

“You must ensure proper record-keeping in all your MDAs, to leave behind a strong and credible legacy at any time you are moved to other places.

“We expect you to work harmoniously with one another. You must ensure a harmonious working relationship among your officers so that the required positive results can be achieved. You must consult, study and master your assigned schedules to enable you to perform better.

“You must bear in mind that this administration is the true reflection of a government of the people by the people and for the people, therefore, our sole target is to serve the good people of the state, and in consonance with our 9-point innovative smart agenda.

“You are therefore expected to be dedicated, committed and hardworking in your areas of primary assignment.

“You must also be prudent in the management of the resources at your disposal. You should know that this administration has zero tolerance for corruption, therefore, you must operate with all transparency and accountability and above all allow the fear of Allah to guide you.

“You should have it in mind that you are appointed to serve your state and add value to the overall development of the state.

“You can therefore be posted and re-posted to any sector. You should note that every sector is important in service delivery. The State Civil Service requires rejuvenation and discipline, therefore, you must ensure improvement in the productivity of the service.

“Let me reiterate and reassure both the civil servants and entire good people of our dear state that our government would continue to be committed to the well-being of our people.

“The security of lives and property is of utmost priority to us. We would, therefore, continue to collaborate with the Federal Government and all the security Agencies in the discharge of that responsibility.

“I would like the civil servant to guard against laziness, lateness, and indolence to work. On our part, we will continue to address your needs for optimal performance. You must therefore be punctual, dedicated above all committed to your duty,” he added.