Public Service Effectiveness Begins With Healthy Workers, Ogun HOS Says

The wellness of public sector employees is fundamental to the effectiveness of public service, as a healthy workforce is better equipped to discharge its responsibilities with competence, dedication and sustained productivity.

The Ogun State Head of Service made this assertion during the launch of a diagnostic initiative titled "Know Your Health Status", held at the Arcade Ground in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

The initiative, organised by the state government as part of activities marking Public Service Day, is designed to encourage workers to give greater attention to their health by embracing preventive healthcare, undergoing regular medical screenings and identifying potential health challenges at an early stage.

The Head of Service urged public servants to take full advantage of the programme, stressing that routine health assessments could help detect emerging health conditions early and facilitate prompt management before such conditions become more serious.

He attributed the state administration’s continued attention to the welfare of public servants to the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, noting that the government had introduced a number of interventions aimed at improving workers’ welfare. These, he said, include palliative allowances, flexible weekly work schedules, timely payment of salaries and opportunities for continuous professional development.

The Head of Service further encouraged public servants to embrace preventive healthcare and cultivate healthier lifestyles, stressing that personal well-being and sustainable development were essential foundations for an efficient and productive public service.

Healthcare professionals who participated in the programme also provided workers with practical guidance on healthy living, preventive healthcare and the importance of detecting diseases and other health conditions before they become advanced.

A consultant physician, registered dietician and chief physiotherapist at the event stressed the need for workers to maintain regular meal patterns, observe appropriate portion sizes and engage in consistent physical activity, particularly to address the health challenges associated with prolonged sitting and sedentary office routines.

The health professionals also demonstrated simple physical exercises that could conveniently be performed within office environments, with particular emphasis on activities designed to help prevent musculoskeletal pain and discomfort associated with workplace conditions.

A representative of the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme also called on public servants who had not yet registered to enrol in the scheme, explaining that the programme could provide workers with access to healthcare services, particularly at times when they might face financial difficulties in meeting medical expenses.

The Permanent Secretary commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for approving the initiative and encouraged public servants to make the most of the opportunity by paying greater attention to their health and translating improved well-being into higher productivity and better performance in the workplace.

The activities marking Public Service Day commenced on Friday with religious ceremonies conducted at government facilities across Abeokuta, forming part of the series of programmes organised to commemorate the occasion and recognise the contributions of public servants to the state.