By Abraham Ovuoba
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has charged Local Government chairmen and public officials to prudently and accountably manage public resources for effective governance.
Gov Nwifuru gave the charge on Wednesday in Abakaliki while declaring open a three-day capacity-building workshop organised by the tbe State Government for Council Chairmen and vice Chairmen, Heads of Personnel Management, Public Relations Practitioners, Treasurers and Coordinators of Development Centres.
The governor said the training was part of efforts to strengthen human capacity and equip public officers with the knowledge required to discharge their responsibilities effectively. He urged the participants to leverage the opportunity to improve governance at the grassroots.
He said the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda had created avenues for citizens to participate in the political decision-making process of government, stressing that trained public officers should be prepared to respond effectively to the needs of the people.
“I am happy and very delighted that this kind of summit is being held here in Abakaliki for the benefit of our people.
“I am impressed with the quality of speakers and speeches that are to be delivered.
“I have said it severally that our LGA chairmen have a lot of work to do. You must understand the processes involved in governance and I am happy that the speakers from various law enforcement agencies will do justice to the topics here.
“I want you to know that serving public is not an avenue to make money. You need to be very prudent in managing public funds and resources.
“You must at all times know that the legacies you build in the LGA will speak for you. You must be very dedicated to your job, avoid distractions and remain focused on your mission”.
In his remarks, the lead consultant and trainer, Theodore Anazodo, described Nwifuru as a human-capital developer, saying the training would provide participants with opportunities to cross-fertilise ideas and bridge gaps in knowledge.
Anazodo also said that the programme would help participants understand the distinction between private and public life and equip them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
