Punctuality and Welfare: Commissioner’s Ogugua Twin Message to Education Workers - Anambra Ministry of Education

The corridors of the Anambra State Ministry of Education came alive on June 30 as Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, embarked on an unscheduled inspection of offices.

The visit was not merely about checking attendance registers. It was a clear message that punctuality and commitment remain non-negotiable values in the state’s public service.

Moving from office to office, the commissioner expressed concern that despite repeated reminders, some workers still report late to duty. He warned that continued disregard for official resumption time could attract sanctions in line with civil service regulations.

Dr. Ogugua maintained that public service requires discipline, adding that workers who cannot comply with established rules are at liberty to relinquish their positions to others willing to serve diligently.

He also sought to clarify misconceptions surrounding closing hours, stressing that employees who arrive late cannot expect to leave at the same time as those who resumed work promptly.

Beyond enforcing discipline, the inspection also highlighted workers’ welfare concerns. Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, reminded the commissioner of the recurring salary deductions affecting workers since February and appealed for urgent intervention.

The inspection therefore conveyed a dual message: while workers must embrace punctuality and accountability, government remains committed to addressing genuine concerns affecting staff welfare and morale within the education sector.