The Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr Law Mefor, has commended the Head of Service, Barrister Mrs Ngozi Anuli Iwouno, for introducing innovative activities to mark the 2026 Civil Service Week, describing the initiative as value-adding and worthy of institutionalization.
Dr. Mefor gave the commendation in an interview after a novelty football match between the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation and the Ministry of Transport, organised as part of activities for the 2026 Civil Service Week by the Office of the Head of Service.
The Commissioner described the annual celebration as an important opportunity for civil servants to reflect on their work, assess their performance and identify areas for improvement.
He noted that this year’s edition, the first to feature activities such as novelty football matches, quiz competitions and dance contests, demonstrated the Head of Service’s commitment to fostering unity and camaraderie among workers.
Mefor urged Iwouno to sustain and institutionalise the initiative beyond her tenure, stressing that it had brought significant value to the civil service.
“It is a noble idea and should be sustained because it has brought so much value,” he said.
Advising workers to apply the lessons from the activities to their professional responsibilities, Mefor said the celebration should encourage regular self-assessment and continuous improvement in the workplace.
“A philosopher said an unexamined life is not worth living. So annually, you take stock. It helps you know where to rejig and where to strengthen,” he said.
He explained that the activities provided an opportunity for civil servants who rarely interacted, particularly those posted to different locations, to meet, relax and strengthen their relationships.
“Even within a ministry, you hardly see others, especially those posted outside. But this is an opportunity where everyone is involved. There is an opportunity for bonding and for relief. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” Mefor said.
According to him, the recreational activities had fostered happiness, friendship and stronger interpersonal relationships, which he said could improve communication, teamwork and productivity across the service.
Mefor expressed optimism that workers would return to their duties with renewed enthusiasm, adding that the initiative could strengthen their sense of belonging and mutual responsibility.
“I believe that when workers truly resume, they will do a lot better. They know that the Service cares and that they should therefore care for one another,” he added.
