By Shulamite Owhoekevbo
In a bold move aimed at promoting staff welfare, strengthening workplace camaraderie and improving work-life balance, the Delta State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, has unveiled a new monthly recreational initiative tagged “Thank God It’s Friday (TGIF)” while officially opening the Staff Club at the Head of Service Office Complex in Asaba.
The initiative, which marks the first of its kind in the Delta State Public Service, is designed to provide civil servants with a relaxed atmosphere where they can unwind, interact and build stronger professional relationships after the week’s official engagements.
Speaking during the official inauguration, Dr. Oseji explained that the programme was conceived as part of efforts to sustain the renewed enthusiasm, unity and high level of engagement witnessed during the recently concluded 2026 Public/Civil Service Week celebration.
She disclosed that, pending the completion of the proposed Civil Service Club project, the Staff Club within the Office of the Head of Service would be opened to officers across the Delta State Public Service to encourage social interaction, recreation and healthy living.
According to her, the initiative reflects the commitment of the present administration to improving not only the productivity of public servants but also their physical, mental and emotional well-being.
The Head of Service recalled her earlier appeal to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to revive and complete the abandoned Civil Service Club project located within the Olorogun Felix Ibru Secretariat Complex, expressing optimism that the Governor would graciously approve the request.
She noted that upon completion, the Civil Service Club would serve as the central venue for recreational, social and professional activities for workers in the state’s public service.
Dr. Oseji said the newly introduced “Thank God It’s Friday” programme would hold on the first Friday of every month, providing civil servants with an opportunity to unwind after work in a friendly and entertaining environment.
She explained that admission would be free for all public officers upon presentation of their official government identity cards.
To make the monthly gathering lively and engaging, a variety of recreational activities have been lined up, including table tennis, chess, ludo, ayo, whot, draught competitions, movie screenings, live saxophone performances, music and dance sessions.
The Head of Service expressed confidence that the initiative would strengthen friendship among workers, promote teamwork, reduce workplace stress and contribute to a healthier and more productive public service.
Many officers who attended the maiden edition described the initiative as timely and innovative, noting that it offers civil servants a unique platform to socialize beyond the workplace, relax after demanding official responsibilities and foster stronger bonds with colleagues.
The “Thank God It’s Friday” initiative is expected to become a regular feature on the Delta State Public Service calendar as the Office of the Head of Service continues to implement people-centred reforms aimed at enhancing staff welfare, boosting morale and creating a more vibrant and efficient public service.
