By Nonye Muo
The Anambra State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, has urged civil servants to safeguard government property and uphold workplace discipline to enhance efficiency in the public service.
Ofoegbu gave the charge during the ministry’s staff meeting held on July 29, at the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka, where issues bordering on punctuality, accountability and commitment to duty were discussed.
He urged workers to regard government offices as a second home by protecting and maintaining public facilities with the same sense of responsibility they accord their personal belongings.
The commissioner expressed concern over the practice of some workers leaving offices without switching off electrical appliances after work, warning that such negligence could result in fire outbreaks, destruction of government property and other avoidable losses.
He also advised heads of departments to foster teamwork and maintain cordial relationships with their staff, noting that effective leadership is anchored on mutual respect, inclusion and a conducive working environment.
Speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Tochukwu Obodogha, reminded staff that habitual lateness constitutes serious misconduct under the 2021 Public Service Rules, while absenteeism amounts to gross misconduct punishable by dismissal.
Obodogha urged workers to remain committed, dedicated and productive in the discharge of their responsibilities and assured the commissioner of the ministry’s continued support in achieving its mandate.
Nonye Muo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
