JOOPSA Will Drive Public Service Delivery in Edo, Says Director General

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Director General of the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy, Imuwahen Ajoonu, has said the launch of the academy in the state would see a recommitment to driving public service transformation in Edo State and Nigeria 

Speaking to journalists yesterday, Ajoonu said the aim was to make the academy a premier learning destination for public sector in the country.

She said the public service academy, which symbolises the commitment to equipping and empowering the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving Nigeria, was birthed by the Obaseki-led government to meet the demands of contemporary society.

The DG listed factors that propelled the urgency of public service transformation to include technological advancements, evolving citizens’ expectations as well as citizen-centric services.

She also disclosed that as part of efforts to meet the proposed target of training 10,000 workers before the end of the year, 5,000 employees from various ministries and agencies, in addition to over 5,000 trained so far, would soon be equipped with digital skills, leadership, public service fundamentals and softskills.

She said, “The role of the public service in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting societal expectations, and complex global challenges has become more crucial than ever before.

“The effective functioning of government bodies and institutions directly impacts the well-being of societies, economies, and the overall progress of nations.

“Recognising this need for continuous improvement and adaptation, the concept of public service transformation has gained prominence with institutions like the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy taking center stage in facilitating this evolution,” Ajoonu said.

Named after the first executive Governor of Edo state, John Odigie-Oyegun, Ajoonu said the academy embodies his dedication to effective governance and leadership, nothing it plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the governor’s vision of strengthening institutions through capacity building. The academy serves as a hub for training and skill development for public servants.

“It offers programmes that focus on leadership, management, strategic thinking, ethics, policy analysis, and communication skills. By enhancing the capabilities of public servants, the academy equips them to navigate the challenges of modern governance effectively,” she added.