Former President Goodluck Jonathan has advocated a unified structure and salary framework for civil servants across Nigeria, arguing that workers at the state and federal levels should operate under similar standards and conditions of service.

Jonathan made the call on Friday in Yenagoa during the foundation-laying and fundraising ceremony for the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries’ Secretariat Complex.

The former president used the occasion to highlight the need for greater alignment within Nigeria’s public service, stressing that many state civil servants possess the same level of competence and experience as their counterparts in the federal service.

Commending the retired permanent secretaries for embarking on the project, Jonathan said the proposed secretariat would not only provide a permanent base for the association but also serve as a resource centre for public service development and engagement.

Reflecting on his time as Governor of Bayelsa State, Jonathan recalled introducing reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s civil service. He noted that one of the key changes under his administration was the elevation of directors to Grade Level 17, a move that allowed them to attain a higher rank before retirement instead of leaving service on Grade Level 16.

According to him, the experience reinforced the need for a more harmonised civil service system across the country, where structures and career progression are not significantly different from one level of government to another.

He maintained that a uniform framework would enhance professionalism, boost morale among workers and promote greater efficiency within the public sector.

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Speaking at the event, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Ebiye Sawyer, assured the association of the government's support towards the successful completion of the project.

Diri praised the retired permanent secretaries for their foresight and commitment to preserving the values of public service, describing the planned complex as a worthwhile investment in institutional memory and leadership.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries, King Collins Daniel, said the proposed secretariat complex would stand as a symbol of the association’s contributions to governance and public administration.

Daniel explained that the facility is being designed as a multi-purpose centre that will accommodate administrative offices, conference and meeting rooms, event halls, as well as recreational spaces for members and visitors.

He disclosed that the project is estimated to cost about ₦500 million and is expected to be completed within two years.

The event attracted government officials, retired civil servants, traditional leaders and other stakeholders who pledged support towards the realisation of the project.