Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for the harmonization of structures and salaries across the Federal and State civil services.

Speaking during the foundation-laying and fund-raising ceremony for the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries” Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, the former President said proper reforms make a stronger civil service nationwide.

He lauded the retired permanent secretaries for the initiative, noting that the caliber of personnel in the Bayelsa State public service compares favorably to their counterparts at the federal level.

Jonathan recalled how, during his tenure as Governor, he restructured the state civil service to introduce Grade Level 17 for Directors who previously retired on Level 16.

He emphasised that establishing a dedicated secretariat for the retired permanent secretaries would serve both retirees and the public, while making a strong case for uniform civil service structures nationwide.

Also, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by the Head of Service, Dr. Ebiye Sawyer, pledged government support for the project, praising the retired officials for their vision and dedication.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Association, King Collins Ebi Daniel, described the proposed complex as an institutional edifice designed to embody the legacy of public service.

He explained that the center will house administrative offices, event halls, conference rooms, and recreational facilities.

King Daniel explained that the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries” Secretariat Complex is expected to cost N500m and would be completed in two years’ time.

High point of the ceremony included the formal foundation laying by Jonathan, a fund-raising session, and a cultural presentation by the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture. (Weekend Trust)