In continuation of the implementation of Performance Improvement Action Plan (PIAP) and the PDO for Q2, the Managing Director and CEO of Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu convened an emergency general meeting on Monday, 4 September 2023 to address pressing issues affecting the Corporation.
The gathering brought together staff members from critical locations within Owerri, including Otamiri Waterworks, Egbeada Umuobaa, and Orji booster stations.
The session commenced with a warm welcome from the Managing Director, who promptly called upon department and unit heads to provide comprehensive progress reports on their respective areas of responsibility.
At Egbeada, participants were informed of a deteriorating road network and inconsistent power supply among others. These challenges were found to be adversely affecting water supply services to the people of the area.
A report indicated persistent difficulty related to inadequate power supply and generator issues at the Ekengwuru Booster Station, which were causing disruptions in water distribution, while, in Okigwe Water Scheme, concerns were raised regarding personnel challenges which demand immediate attention and resolution.
The Resident Engineer of Otamiri Waterworks reported disruptions in power supply and issues with the segmentation basin. He also highlighted ongoing rehabilitation efforts such as perimeter block fencing at the treatment plant and the construction of new staff quarters, along with the engagement of consultants for support.
Engr Henry Adiruo, the Head of Water Services, shared updates on addressing leakages in parts of World Bank and the establishment of a Rapid Response Team (RRT) for swift responses to emergency situations, such as pipe repairs. Adiruo also underscored recent professional training initiatives for department staff.
While the Accounts Department successfully managed to process salaries, ongoing issues affecting a few employees were discussed. Challenges related to internet connectivity were recognized as hampering the full operationalization of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
In her remarks, Mrs. Assumpta Ogbonna-Okorie, Head of Administration, expressed her gratitude to the Managing Director for convening the meeting, highlighting its critical role in fostering collaboration and achieving the success of the SURWASH program. She also called for the confirmation of appointments for deserving staff members who have excelled during their two-year probation period.
In response to the reports, Managing Director Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu expressed concerns about the dedication of certain new staff members, urging them to exhibit improved attitudes and commitment to their roles. He also advised the Commercial Department to explore innovative communication methods, such as radio jingles and church advocacy to enhance public awareness of borehole fee payments.
Engr Ugoanyanwu underscored the significance of revenue generation for the sustainability of ISWSC and encouraged staff to obtain certifications and licenses from professional bodies, thereby increasing their recognition within the organization.
Regarding promotions and staff appointments, he emphasized that promotions should serve as a motivation for staff to enhance their productivity and deliver efficient services. Confirmation of new staff appointments would be contingent upon resolving any pending issues with the Department of Administration.
The emergency meeting provided a platform for ISWSC management, staff and representatives of Imo State Chapter of NLC to collectively address critical challenges and outline strategies to improve the services of the Corporation.
ISWSC Holds Emergency Meeting to Address Challenges
In continuation of the implementation of Performance Improvement Action Plan (PIAP) and the PDO for Q2, the Managing Director and CEO of Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu convened an emergency general meeting on Monday, 4 September 2023 to address pressing issues affecting the Corporation.
The gathering brought together staff members from critical locations within Owerri, including Otamiri Waterworks, Egbeada Umuobaa, and Orji booster stations.
The session commenced with a warm welcome from the Managing Director, who promptly called upon department and unit heads to provide comprehensive progress reports on their respective areas of responsibility.
At Egbeada, participants were informed of a deteriorating road network and inconsistent power supply among others. These challenges were found to be adversely affecting water supply services to the people of the area.
A report indicated persistent difficulty related to inadequate power supply and generator issues at the Ekengwuru Booster Station, which were causing disruptions in water distribution, while, in Okigwe Water Scheme, concerns were raised regarding personnel challenges which demand immediate attention and resolution.
The Resident Engineer of Otamiri Waterworks reported disruptions in power supply and issues with the segmentation basin. He also highlighted ongoing rehabilitation efforts such as perimeter block fencing at the treatment plant and the construction of new staff quarters, along with the engagement of consultants for support.
Engr Henry Adiruo, the Head of Water Services, shared updates on addressing leakages in parts of World Bank and the establishment of a Rapid Response Team (RRT) for swift responses to emergency situations, such as pipe repairs. Adiruo also underscored recent professional training initiatives for department staff.
While the Accounts Department successfully managed to process salaries, ongoing issues affecting a few employees were discussed. Challenges related to internet connectivity were recognized as hampering the full operationalization of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
In her remarks, Mrs. Assumpta Ogbonna-Okorie, Head of Administration, expressed her gratitude to the Managing Director for convening the meeting, highlighting its critical role in fostering collaboration and achieving the success of the SURWASH program. She also called for the confirmation of appointments for deserving staff members who have excelled during their two-year probation period.
In response to the reports, Managing Director Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu expressed concerns about the dedication of certain new staff members, urging them to exhibit improved attitudes and commitment to their roles. He also advised the Commercial Department to explore innovative communication methods, such as radio jingles and church advocacy to enhance public awareness of borehole fee payments.
Engr Ugoanyanwu underscored the significance of revenue generation for the sustainability of ISWSC and encouraged staff to obtain certifications and licenses from professional bodies, thereby increasing their recognition within the organization.
Regarding promotions and staff appointments, he emphasized that promotions should serve as a motivation for staff to enhance their productivity and deliver efficient services. Confirmation of new staff appointments would be contingent upon resolving any pending issues with the Department of Administration.
The emergency meeting provided a platform for ISWSC management, staff and representatives of Imo State Chapter of NLC to collectively address critical challenges and outline strategies to improve the services of the Corporation.
Christopher Ononukwe
Communications Desk Officer