Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has advocated for a major structural overhaul of Nigeria’s public sector, calling for the harmonisation of structures and salary scales between the federal and state civil services. ​
Speaking on Friday, September 18, 2026, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Dr. Jonathan stated that aligning state civil service cadres with federal standards would boost morale, promote administrative fairness, and prevent disparities in public service delivery nationwide. ​
The former president made these remarks during the foundation-laying and N500 million fundraising ceremony for the Secretariat Complex of the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries.
Goodluck Jonathan (Former President of Nigeria): Emphasised that workers carrying out identical responsibilities at state and federal levels should share equivalent grade levels and pay structures.
Recalling his tenure as Governor of Bayelsa State, Jonathan noted that he restructured the state civil service to introduce Grade Level 17 for directors, who previously retired at Grade Level 16, ensuring equity with federal counterparts.
Dr. Ebiye Sawyer (Head of Service, representing Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri): Commended the retired senior officials for their foresight and pledged the state government’s commitment to supporting the construction project.
King Collins Ebi Daniel (Chairman, Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries) revealed that the proposed multi-purpose secretariat is budgeted at N500 million with a two-year completion timeline.
The facility will feature administrative offices, conference rooms, event halls, and recreational centers. ​Jonathan concluded by encouraging state governments across the nation to adopt structural reforms that strengthen public service institutions and ensure retirees are adequately supported.
