BY: AISHAT OHUNENE YUSUF
The 2025 Kogi State Civil Service Week, themed “Igniting Digital Transformation”, came to a colourful and inspiring close with a grand award ceremony held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Lokoja, where six outstanding civil servants were honoured for their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and contributions to public service in the State.
The week-long celebration which featured a diverse lineup of activities, including free medical outreach, special religious services, novelty football matches, tree planting, and public lectures, culminating in the prestigious award night.
Speaking on behalf of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, ably represented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi, SAN, commended the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Elijah Evinemi, FCA, for reviving and sustaining the Civil Service Week as a platform to celebrate excellence.
He urged the creation of more award categories to accommodate officers across all cadres, encouraging civil servants to embrace continuous self-development to remain relevant in a fast-changing world.
“A strong, vibrant, and innovative civil service is the backbone of effective governance, and this can only be achieved when every officer is committed to learning, growth, and excellence,” he stated.
In his remarks, Dr. Elijah Evinemi praised civil servants for their steadfast commitment and urged them to embrace innovation and digital transformation in daily operations.
He described the awardees as “role models worthy of emulation” for their discipline, loyalty, and exemplary service.
The Governor also charged the civil servants to sustain the momentum by fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and efficiency.
The event highlight was the presentation of awards to six distinguished officers drawn from the Office of the Head of Civil Service, Ministry of Health, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Civil Service Commission, Ministry of Finance, Budget and Planning and Office of the Deputy Governor. Each recipient received a certificates of recognition and a packaged gift item, with special commendations from His Excellency and
the Head of Service.
Plans for the next Civil Service Week include expanding award categories garnering more sponsors and integrating capacity-building initiatives to boost digital skills among officers.
Also present at the event were retired Heads of Civil Service, Permanent Secretaries, Commissioners, Directors, and other top government functionaries who joined in celebrating the achievements of the awardees and the overall success of the event.
The 2025 Civil Service Week will be remembered for its rich programmes and the recognition of officers whose dedication reflects the ideals of a vibrant public service.
Information Officer
Office of the Head of Civil Service.
