Edo State Head of Service Anthony Okungbowa has engaged officials and staff of the Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources on e-governance, workplace productivity and employee welfare. He said digital processes had resumed following earlier technical and access challenges, while outlining continuing training and planned staff-support measures.
Edo State Head of Service Dr Anthony Okungbowa has met with management and staff of the Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources in Benin City as part of efforts to strengthen the effectiveness and productivity of the civil service. He said the engagement was intended to hear staff experiences, identify operational challenges and gather suggestions for improving service delivery in the newly established ministry.
Okungbowa said the state's e-governance system was back in operation and described the transition from paper-based to digital processes as a major administrative change. He said earlier challenges involving intellectual-property ownership and backend access had been addressed, and highlighted potential benefits including faster processing, fewer errors, stronger accountability and the ability to work beyond physical office locations.
The Head of Service said training would continue rather than remain a one-off exercise. He also cited the Public Service Knowledge Series, designed to build professional knowledge and institutional values, and the Edo State Public Service Retooling and Enhancement Programme, which he said was developed and implemented by civil servants. He encouraged staff to provide feedback to help improve systems and address outstanding issues.
The engagement also covered promotions, staff recognition and workplace equipment. Okungbowa said the administration was working to avoid promotion arrears and that laptops and desktop computers were being pursued. He referred to 50 CNG-powered buses purchased by the state government, which workers would be able to use at subsidised fares with their identification cards, as well as plans for a sick bay, counselling services and a housing scheme.
Earlier, ministry staff raised the need for computers, special-purpose vehicles to support the ministry's oil and gas responsibilities, improved transport access and relief from accommodation costs and work-related emotional pressures. The engagement concluded with assurances of continued collaboration and efforts to address the concerns raised.