Commissioner Promises Improved Working Conditions … Splashes N.1m On Outstanding Caregiver 

Rivers State Commissioner for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Ilamu Arugu, has said the challenges of inadequate manpower and lack of vehicles in the Ministry will soon be resolved.

Giving the assurance to staff of the Ministry recently, while presenting the award to the recipient of the “Best Staff”, Gloria Dickson, as the “Outstanding Staff Of The Month”, January 2025, notes that the State  Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, “is committed to improving working conditions for Rivers workers and will soon address the manpower shortage in the ministry”.

A statement from the Press Unit of the Ministry said the Social Welfare and Rehabilitation boss encouraged staff to remain steadfast in their duties, assuring them that their hard work would be recognized if they persisted.

To reinforce this message, he presented a ?100,000 cash award to the recipient, Gloria Dickson, as a token of appreciation for what he described as her “exceptional service”.

He noted that Dickson emerged overwhelmingly as the winner after a thorough evaluation process, receiving 10 votes out of 15 nominations from her colleagues.

Arugu emphasized that the award scheme, aimed at ensuring inclusiveness, provided equal opportunities for deserving staff members, including those from various care homes to participate and be recognized for their hard work in the January draws.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Professor Justina Jumbo, commended the Commissioner for his unwavering support and commitment to sustaining the monthly award scheme, noting that since the introduction of the new initiative, staff attendance and dedication to their duties have significantly improved.

Professor Jumbo emphasized the importance of passion, love, and care in handling vulnerable children, urging staff working in  the homes to remain vigilant and monitor the children’s health to ensure their safety and  development, as well as to prevent further deaths.

Receiving the cash gift, Dickson, a dedicated caregiver at the State Children’s Home, Borokiri, expressed an emotione-filled gratefulness for the honour,  appreciating the Commissioner for the kind gesture.

She also acknowledged the significant impact it would have on her life and work.

The Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation’s monthly best staff award initiative, introduced by the Arugu, has recognized three staff since its inception, with Gloria Dickson as the latest recipient of the award.

Sogbeba Dokubo