BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has unveiled the maiden edition of the Edo State Public Service Knowledge Series, a new initiative aimed at promoting continuous learning, strengthening policy conversations and deepening ongoing reforms within the state civil and public service.
The initiative was announced by the Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, during a press briefing in Benin City.
Okungbowa said the programme, conceptualised by the Office of the Head of Service in line with the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo, is designed to build a self-sufficient, innovation-driven and result-oriented public service under the Edo State Public Service Retooling and Enhancement Programme (Edo-PREP).
He explained that the monthly virtual knowledge-sharing platform was introduced to ensure reforms within the service are driven internally by civil servants and public administrators.
According to him, one of the key objectives of Edo-PREP is to strengthen institutional capacity by equipping workers with the knowledge, competencies and emotional intelligence required to navigate the complexities of modern governance.
“In a rapidly changing world, effective public service demands more than dedication. It requires knowledge, emotional intelligence, adaptability and the ability to navigate complex situations with excellence,” he said.
Okungbowa noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, particularly in the areas of education, institutional strengthening and human capital development.
He said the platform would bring together policymakers, administrators, analysts, development actors, technocrats, researchers and public servants to exchange ideas, bridge knowledge gaps and discuss practical solutions for improving governance and service delivery in the state.
“The Governor’s directive is very clear. The service must become self-sufficient and reforms must be facilitated from within the system. That vision necessitates continuous learning and the creation of platforms where ideas are shared, lessons are learned and institutional knowledge is strengthened,” he stated.
The Head of Service disclosed that the maiden edition of the series would hold virtually on May 26, 2026, with the theme, “Emotional Intelligence: A Vital Strand for Effective Service Delivery.”
He said the topic was selected because emotional intelligence remains one of the most critical but often overlooked competencies required for leadership, teamwork, crisis management and public engagement.
The session will feature Mr. Osahon Omole, a former Edo State Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) and member of the institute’s governing council, as guest speaker.
Okungbowa expressed confidence that participants would gain practical insights into workplace relationships, conflict management, communication and productivity enhancement.
He added that the initiative would ultimately benefit citizens through improved governance and service delivery across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“The ultimate beneficiaries of every reform are the citizens. When public servants are better equipped, emotionally intelligent and professionally competent, governance becomes more responsive, efficient and people-oriented,” he said.
He encouraged workers across the state public service to embrace continuous learning, innovation and professional excellence.
