The Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Lauretta Davies-Dimpka, has disclosed that the ongoing civil service reforms in the state are centred on improving workers’ welfare and strengthening service delivery.
She made this statement while speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, explaining that the reforms under Governor Siminalayi Fubara are built around three key areas: people, systems, and service delivery.
According to her, the administration is working to address long-standing issues that have affected morale in the civil service, including promotion backlogs and unpaid pensions.
She said efforts in that direction are beginning to restore confidence among workers and improve productivity across ministries.
Davies-Dimpka also pointed to the ongoing rehabilitation of the State Secretariat Complex as a clear sign of the government’s commitment to better working conditions.
She noted that for a ministry that works directly with vulnerable groups, staff motivation plays a crucial role in how services are delivered.
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“Our staff work closely with vulnerable populations. When they feel valued, their empathy and efficiency improve,” she said.
On institutional changes, she explained that the government is strengthening internal systems through the digitisation of records, clearer reporting structures, and a stronger focus on measurable outcomes.
She said these changes are expected to improve the handling of social intervention cases, provide more reliable data across local governments, and support coordination with local and international partners.
Davies-Dimpka said the reforms also reflect the administration’s push for governance that directly impacts citizens, particularly through social welfare services.
She pointed to services such as adoption and fostering, rehabilitation, child protection, disability support, and juvenile justice as areas receiving renewed attention.
She also cited the establishment of a Sexual Assault Referral Centre in the state, which provides medical, legal, and psychosocial support to survivors, noting that more people are now coming forward to seek help.
According to her, the overall goal is to build a civil service that is more accountable, professional, and responsive to the needs of residents.
