ASABA/Nigeria: In a bid to meet the pressing responsibilities laid before it, the Delta State Directorate of Government House and Protocol has earnestly called upon stakeholders to sustain their backing in achieving its objectives.
Sir Eddy Ogidi Gbegbaje, the Permanent Secretary of the Government House, articulated this plea during the 2024 budget defense session held before the State House of Assembly Committee on Establishments.
Flanked by Mr. Anino Tetsiola, the Permanent Secretary of Government House Protocol, and Mr. Victor Udi, the Permanent Secretary of Government House Special Duties, Gbegbaje emphasized the substantial responsibilities placed upon the Directorate, significantly influencing the state’s image and its populace.
Gbegbaje clarified that the Directorate’s efficacy hinges on robust collaborations with essential stakeholders. Despite significant accomplishments in the preceding year of 2023, he highlighted the necessity for continued growth in alignment with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda.
The Permanent Secretary sought crucial budgetary allocations, underlining the resource-intensive nature of the Directorate’s functions.
Expressing gratitude to the Committee members for their cooperation, Sir Gbegbaje appealed for heightened support from the lawmakers.
Hon Edafe Emakpor, Chairman of the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Establishment, expressed confidence in the State government’s M.O.R.E initiative, underscoring the dynamic synergy between the Executive and Legislature in advancing the socio-economic well-being of Deltans.
Emakpor urged the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to uphold fundamental principles of accountability, transparency, and fiscal prudence while executing their 2024 budgets.
He emphasized, “This exercise (budget defense) isn’t merely a yearly routine; it is constitutional and legally mandated. Any expenditure of government funds must receive approval from the State legislature.”
Continuing, Emakpor emphasized the lawmakers’ commitment to facilitating success for all involved parties, promoting a symbiotic relationship between the executive and legislative arms for effective governance.
“We are all dedicated to ensuring the success of Governor Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E agenda. To accomplish this vision, upholding principles of accountability, transparency, and prudence is imperative,” stated Hon Emakpor.
Additionally, Mr. Jerry Agbaike, Chairman of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), and Mr. Patrick Ojeblenu, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Head of Service, among others, presented their 2024 budget proposals before the committee for scrutiny and defense.
