Anambra LG workers decry shortage of staff, say many departments may go extinct
Acute Manpower Shortage Threatens Local Government Departments in Anambra State
Local government employees in Anambra State have voiced concerns over a significant shortage of manpower across council areas, warning that several departments may face extinction in the near future.
The issue was highlighted Wednesday during the 2026 Local Government Service Week, held at the Anambra State Local Government Service Commission compound. This year’s theme, “Innovation and Efficiency in Local Government Service: The Solution Agenda,” framed discussions around the pressing challenges faced by the sector.
Dr. Helen Orie, chair of the planning committee for the event, emphasized that all 21 local government councils in the state are grappling with severe staff shortages. She underscored the necessity for training and retraining programs for existing workers, alongside improvements in staff welfare, noting that the current conditions may deter potential new hires in the field.
“We appreciate the governor’s ongoing efforts, but it is crucial to address the acute shortage of workers in the local government system,” said Orie. “Many departments may cease to function due to a lack of qualified personnel. We urge the governor to approve the hiring of additional local government staff, as part of his commitment to strengthening this essential system.”
In her address, Orie reiterated calls for enhanced training initiatives and better working conditions to retain staff.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, also in attendance, assured local government workers that his administration is dedicated to improving operational efficiency within the local governance framework. “Training, staff recruitment, and welfare are central to our mandate. We are committed to these priorities because they reflect our core values,” he stated.
The governor confirmed that plans are in place for substantial employment opportunities within the local government system. “Recruitment efforts are underway, and we aim to reconstitute and strengthen the commission, addressing training and recruitment issues. The new board will also assess welfare after the reconstitution process,” Soludo explained.
The two-day service week began with a training conference on the first day and concluded with a parade featuring employees from various local government areas, fostering a sense of unity and commitment among local government staff.
