Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE, has called on Heads of Service and key financial officers within the local government to adhere strictly to laid-down financial procedures. This includes compliance with the Financial Memoranda, the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the State Public Procurement Act, and other related regulations to prevent the misapplication of funds that could lead to corruption.
Deputy Governor Emetu made this statement during a 3-day seminar/workshop for local government financial managers, organized by Samuk Media Life Ventures in collaboration with the Local Government Service Commission, held at the Bishop Anthony Nwedo Pastoral Centre in Umuahia.
“With the ongoing transformation and reforms in the State Public Service, an improved workforce is essential. The Governor places a high premium on the training and retraining of the workforce to ensure greater output and efficiency across all facets of the State Service, including the Local Government,” stated Emetu.
He applauded the Local Government Service Commission for fulfilling its mandate to enhance manpower development, which aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s administration. The Deputy Governor also emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency, urging participants to adopt these principles in line with Governor Otti’s financial management creed. He reiterated that all financial managers within the State and Local Government must be accountable for their actions.
In her address, the Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission, Princess Ezinne Judith Ngwakwe, Ph.D., explained that the seminar was designed to ensure that all staff levels are equipped for optimal performance. She highlighted the seminar’s focus areas, including the application of Public Service Rules, Local Government Administration, Effective Payroll Management, and Anti-Corruption measures.
Ngwakwe expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for prioritizing the skill enhancement of the Commission’s staff through continuous training, assuring that the outcomes of these workshops will yield lasting benefits.
Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, KSJI
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State.
