By Solomon OKPO | The Evangelist News Desk
The Accountant-General of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien, has charged newly recruited civil servants to embrace discipline, maintain emotional control, uphold professionalism and begin planning for retirement from the earliest stage of their careers.
Andrew-Essien gave the charge on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, while declaring open a one-day orientation programme for 31 newly employed accounting professionals posted to the Office of the Accountant-General by the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service Commission.
He stressed that dedication to duty, responsible conduct and strict compliance with established rules and regulations were essential to effective public service delivery. The Accountant-General, who is also a Permanent Secretary, urged the new employees to develop sound financial habits and take their long-term financial security seriously.
He warned against delaying retirement preparations until the final years of service, insisting that financial planning should form an integral part of every worker’s career. “Retirement planning should not be postponed until the final year of service but should be treated as an important aspect of every worker’s career from onset,” he said.
The Accountant-General also reminded the new employees that their positions came with responsibilities to the government and the people of Akwa Ibom State, urging them to approach their duties with a clear sense of purpose and commitment.
Earlier, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr Aniekan Effiong, described the civil service as the engine room of government, responsible for translating policies and programmes into tangible results. He emphasised political neutrality, professionalism and impartiality as fundamental principles that must guide public servants in carrying out their duties.
Effiong explained that the administration and conduct of civil servants in the state were guided by the Public Service Rules, Financial Regulations, relevant public service laws and extant circulars. These instruments, he noted, provide the framework for the effective administration and discipline of government employees.
The orientation programme featured presentations on the payroll system and financial regulations, alongside the administration of the Oath of Secrecy to the newly recruited personnel by Barrister Ekemini Akpan.
The 31 recruits, all accounting professionals, are expected to contribute their expertise to the financial administration of Akwa Ibom State while adhering to the principles of accountability, confidentiality and professionalism in public service.
