The National Chairman, Association of Heads of Local Government Administration/Service in Nigeria, Dr. Mandu Ekpenyong recently hinted that Akwa Ibom State has been chosen to host the first annual conference of the Association.
Dr. Ekpenyong disclosed this when she led members of the national executive of the Association and executive members of the Conference of Heads of Local Government Service, AKS on a courtesy call on the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Local Government Service Commission, Rt. Hon. Monday Eyo in his office.
The pioneer chairman said “Akwa Ibom State is the first state to benefit from this visit because the Pioneer National Chairman is your own. This speaks volumes of the respect accorded this great State. We believe that you can with your office turn the situation around for good in respect of entitlements due to HOLGS.”
According to the National Chairman “We have decided to host the first Annual Conference of this great Association in Akwa Ibom State in November 2021, as this will create an opportunity to showcase Akwa Ibom and the good works of His Excellency, Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel to the whole world at large and Nigeria in particular”
For a successful hosting of the National Conference, the Association through the National Chairman solicited for partnership with the Local Government Service Commission and the support of the Akwa Ibom State Government.
Dr. Ekpenyong noted that after due consultation with stakeholders in different states of the federation, it was agreed that the welfare of members of the association is looked into and address as applicable.
“Understanding the need of regularising and harmonizing the administrative pattern, treatment, and benefits due to the office of Heads of Local Government Service in the Federation, the Association decided to visit Stakeholders in different States in Nigeria to know how they are operating.”
“after due interaction with Executive and Members in Akwa Ibom State, the following challenges were identified; No special salary scale for HOLGS; No permanent Status for HOLGS after retirement as applicable to the Permanent Secretaries at the State level; No recognition of HOLGS in State functions, etc.” She concluded.
Responding, the Chairman of Local Government Service Commission, AKS Rt. Hon. Monday Eyo assured the association of the commission’s support.
Dr.Mandu Ekpenyong is the Head of Local Government Service, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Council, Akwa Ibom State.
