Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has announced significant changes to the work schedules for civil servants in an effort to address the rising transportation costs that have been affecting workers across the region. This decision reflects the governor’s commitment to the welfare of public servants amid ongoing economic challenges in Nigeria.
In a statement released by the Office of the Head of Service, Samuel Aina Ayanleye, the governor indicated that these new work schedules are designed to ease the financial burden on civil servants while ensuring that essential services continue to operate effectively. The announcement was made public by Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson for the governor, highlighting the administration’s responsiveness to the needs of its workforce.
The revised work schedules are as follows: public servants on Grade Levels 01 to 10 will now work three days a week, while those on Grade Levels 12 to 17 will work four days a week. This restructuring is expected to provide employees with more flexibility and reduce their commuting expenses, which have been escalating due to inflation and rising fuel prices.
It is important to note that this adjustment does not apply to all civil servants. Employees engaged in essential duties—such as healthcare workers, security personnel, and political office holders—will maintain their regular work schedules to ensure that critical services remain uninterrupted. This consideration underscores the administration’s recognition of the vital roles these individuals play in maintaining public safety and health.
Furthermore, the circular issued by the governor emphasized that the specific days that each public servant will work will be arranged by their Accounting Officers in various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the government. This localized approach allows for greater flexibility in scheduling while ensuring that all departments can continue to function effectively.
In addition to the changes in work schedules, Governor Adeleke has also approved an extension of financial palliatives for public servants for an additional two months. This support is intended to help alleviate the financial strain on workers as they navigate the current economic landscape. The continuation of these palliatives is particularly significant as the state prepares for the implementation of a new minimum wage, which aims to further support civil servants in the coming months.
The governor’s actions have been met with appreciation from various labor unions and public sector workers, who view these measures as a proactive step toward improving their working conditions. By prioritizing the needs of civil servants, Governor Adeleke aims to foster a more productive and motivated workforce, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Osun State.
All Accounting Officers in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, including local governments, have been instructed to comply with these new directives. This ensures that the governor’s initiatives are effectively communicated and implemented throughout the state’s civil service.
