By MaryAnn Chukwuma.
The push to modernize the Anambra State Civil Service gained momentum on Tuesday as the Head of Service, Barr. Ngozi Anuli Iwouno, told administrative officers that digital competence and workplace etiquette are now indispensable requirements for public service.
Speaking at the ongoing Anambra Human Resource Development Week, at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka, Barr. Iwouno stated that the training is designed to equip workers with digital skills and technical compliance necessary to actualize Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of transforming the state into a “Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley.”
In a practical session on workplace etiquette, the HOS emphasized that effective service delivery begins with basic courtesies. “The minimum expectation is to greet with a smile and a pleasant disposition, not a hostile countenance,” she said. “The manner in which you receive visitors can psychologically resolve half of their concerns before their files are even attended to.” She cautioned that responding to members of the public with aggression constitutes misconduct and urged officers to position themselves as points of contact for solutions.
Linking the training to the administration’s broader reform agenda, she stated, “In line with the Governor’s vision, we seek to reposition the civil service into a smart, 21st-century institution. We cannot afford to be left behind. That is why we are starting with the fundamentals to ensure excellent and technology-driven service delivery.” Barr. Iwouno further stressed the urgency of improving Information and Communication Technology skills, warning that without such competence, staff risk becoming obsolete. “Our goal remains excellent service delivery for Ndi Anambra.”
Also Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service, Mrs. Nkiru Jessie Nwankwo, urged staff to uphold truthfulness and maintain a courteous demeanor when attending to the public.
In their contributions, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Jerome Ilokwu, underscored the need for discipline. They called on administrative officers to prioritize punctuality, manage their time efficiently, and maintain decent professional appearance. “As administrative officers, you are expected to lead by example and set the standard for others to emulate if your corrective actions are to carry weight,” they remarked.
The Human Resource Development Week, which commenced on 26th May 2026, is training administrative officers, confidential secretaries, and clerical staff across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The programme focuses on digital compliance, professional ethics, and other critical areas of capacity building aimed at strengthening public service delivery in the state.
MaryAnn is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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