By Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced an Extended Verification Exercise to re-assess 8,924 public servants who either missed or failed to meet the necessary requirements in the recently concluded verification process.
This was revealed by the Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, during a media briefing at his office who disclosed that “Out of the total number, 2,924 public servants did not attend the verification, while more than 6,000 attended but did not meet the set standards due to issues such as mismatched records, incorrect NINs, and invalid bank details.”
In response, Governor Umo Eno has approved an extension of the verification period by one month. “The Governor has kindly granted an additional 30 days for those whose verification failed or those who missed it. After this period, anyone who does not complete the verification will no longer be considered a part of the Akwa Ibom State Public Service,” Essien explained.
Additionally, the Governor has instructed that pensioners’ records also be verified. “The Governor has directed that we ensure the accuracy of pensioners’ records as part of the ongoing verification process,” he added.
Essien commended Governor Umo Eno for his worker-friendly leadership, describing him as approachable and attentive to the needs of the state’s workers. “Governor Umo Eno is compassionate and always ready to listen to the concerns of his people,” Essien stated.
Also, Governor Umo Eno has approved the recruitment of 600 health workers and 100 occupational safety officers to strengthen healthcare services and enhance workplace safety in Akwa Ibom State. The announcement was made by the Head of Service during the same briefing.
Essien explained that the health sector will benefit from the recruitment of 400 workers in the primary healthcare sector and 200 in the secondary healthcare sector. “This initiative will significantly improve healthcare delivery across the state,” he said. The recruitment of 100 professional safety officers will also ensure better workplace safety for workers.
He encouraged all eligible candidates to apply through the Akwa Ibom State employment portal, which will ensure fairness and transparency in the recruitment process. “This is part of Governor Umo Eno’s vision to address unemployment and promote transparency in all public service recruitment,” Essien noted.
Essien also confirmed that the Governor has recently approved an increase in pensions for retired workers in the state. “Pensioners who retired before 2007 have received an increase of ₦20,000, while those who retired between 2007 and 2012 saw an increase of ₦15,000. Additionally, retired permanent secretaries who retired before 2007 have also benefited from this increase,” Essien stated.
He further emphasized the importance of ensuring the accuracy of pension records and ensuring all eligible pensioners continue to receive their benefits.
Governor Umo Eno’s administration remains committed to improving the welfare of workers and retirees. From the ₦80,000 minimum wage for verified workers to the clearing of pension arrears, these efforts reflect the Governor’s focus on good governance and public service reform.
