The Rivers State Government on Monday opened a four-day Transformational Leadership Training Workshop for Sustainable Development for top-ranking civil servants in the state.
The leadership training, organised in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), is designed to enhance productivity, efficiency, and service delivery across River’s public sector.
The workshop is being attended by Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Administrators, and directors from various ministries.
In his address, the State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, emphasised the need for a modern, adaptive, and visionary public service capable of meeting rising citizen expectations amid rapid global changes.
“This training is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to lead through complexity, champion reforms, strengthen local government autonomy, and deliver meaningful results to our communities,” he stated, urging participants to embrace it fully with open minds and a clear commitment to translating learning into action.
The Administrator stressed that the workshop was not just about improving systems but also aimed to “inspire a cultural shift within the public service, fostering excellence, accountability, and innovation.”
“Only regular training can combat the ills of stagnation, offering lifelong experiences that enable workers to adapt, grow, and ensure real transformation in governance. This administration is committed to building strong institutions, promoting efficiency, and fostering a results-driven public service. We are laying the foundation for a culture of good governance—one that will serve not just the present generation but also those to come,” he added.
The Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, described the workshop’s theme, “Transformational Leadership for Sustainable Development,” as timely, given the evolving demands of governance.
“This course is meticulously designed to bridge leadership gaps and equip participants with contemporary strategies for collaborative governance.
“We commend the Rivers State Government for its commitment to sustainable economic growth, infrastructural renewal, and social development—all of which require leadership excellence at all levels,” Prof. Omotayo said.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, noted that the training reflects the Administrator’s passion for workforce development.
“In our rapidly changing world, continuous learning is essential for professional growth,” he said. “This workshop will provide participants with practical skills to enhance their performance in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).”
The Acting Head of Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown, urged participants to maximise the opportunity, stating:
“This training is another step in empowering our workforce with the knowledge and vision needed to lead with integrity. Engage actively, share experiences, and apply these insights to drive measurable improvements in service delivery.”
The workshop underscores the Rivers State Government’s commitment to institutional strengthening, capacity building, and sustainable development through a well-trained, motivated, and innovative public service.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then