Bayelsa Governor Appoints Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer as New Head of Civil Service

In a strategic leadership move, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has officially appointed Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer as the new Head of the Civil Service of the state. The appointment was announced following the retirement of Barrister (Mrs.) Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema on August 31, 2025. Dr. Sawyer, who previously served as a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, assumed office in a swearing-in ceremony held at the Government House, Yenagoa.

Dr. Sawyer brings a distinguished career in civil service and public health to his new role. Born on May 14, 1970, in Odi community of the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, he commenced his educational journey at Town School, Okrika, before progressing to Okrika Grammar School. He later earned his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Port Harcourt in 1996.

His academic credentials further include a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Lagos (2000) and a Part II Fellowship in Public Health from the National Post-Graduate Medical College, Lagos (2010). Notably, he has defended his Ph.D. dissertation in Clinical Sciences and Public Health at Niger Delta University, advancing his expertise in health policy and administration. Additionally, Dr. Sawyer is a respected member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

Governor Diri emphasized that Dr. Sawyer’s appointment was strictly merit-based, highlighting his integrity, seniority as the most senior Permanent Secretary, and expected longevity beyond the current administration. “Your appointment is not influenced by local government affiliations but by your proven character and experience,” the governor declared during the swearing-in.

The Governor charged Dr. Sawyer to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity while dedicating himself fully to the responsibilities of his office. He also directed that the Bayelsa State Pension Board staff undergo redeployment, with new postings to ensure men and women of integrity lead critical departments.

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In addition to Dr. Sawyer’s appointment, two Special Advisers on Legal Matters, Dr. Alabo Ozubide and Barrister Inemo Oruebimiekumo, were sworn into office at the same ceremony. Governor Diri tasked them with maintaining synergy with the Attorney-General and enforcing high ethical standards within the administration.

As Bayelsa’s 12th Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer inherits a pivotal role within the state’s Executive Council, charged with steering the civil service toward greater efficiency and accountability to support the state government’s developmental agenda.