Abia urges 811 new health workers to uphold public trust

Newly recruited healthcare workers in Abia State have been urged to uphold public trust by adhering to five key principles: integrity, professionalism, respect, compassion, and patriotism. Pastor Jerry, Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, delivered this message during a one-day orientation program in Umuahia for the 811 new hires, who include nurses, doctors, medical laboratory scientists, pharmacists, dentists, and technologists.

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As nurses, doctors, medical laboratory scientists, pharmacists, dentists, dental therapists and technologists, you are not just employees; you are frontline defenders of life.

Jerry emphasized that these workers are not merely employees but "frontline defenders of life" and stewards of public trust. She outlined four critical civil service disciplines: being present and punctual, fostering teamwork, acting as problem solvers, and upholding ethics. She specifically warned against selling hospital consumables, demanding payment for services, and encouraged the use of the whistleblower policy for reporting misconduct.

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As you step into public service under the Abia State Public Service Rules, you are now stewards of public trust. I want you to hold on to these five principles.

The orientation also underscored the state government's commitment to healthcare, with officials stating that a healthy citizenry is vital for a strong economy. Governor Alex Otti's administration aims to restore trust in the public health system, viewing healthcare as a right that must be affordable, accessible, and of high quality for all Abians. The Head of Service, Benson Ojeikere, stressed that the health workers are key to executing government policies and achieving the vision of a healthy Abia.

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Abia State is investing in healthcare because healthy citizens build a strong economy.

The program covered various aspects of public service, including the structure of government agencies, civil service rules, ongoing reforms, and service delivery expectations within the healthcare system, aligning with the governor's 'New Abia Agenda'.

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Otti has consistently stated that healthcare is not a privilege; it is a right, and government must make it affordable, accessible and of high quality. We want every Abian to truly access quality healthcare.