Staff Kick After Niger Delta Power Holding Boss Increases Promotion Criteria Without Consultation

There are strong indications that all may not be well at the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) as the staff of the company have kicked against the unilateral decision of the Managing Director of the company, Engr. Jenniffer Adighije to increase the promotion criteria for staff without due consultations with the stakeholders in the company.

The staff, it was gathered, have written a “Save Our Career” petition to the Board of NDPHC under the chairmanship of the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima to urgently intervene by calling on the Managing Director to order before she stops an age long promotion criteria which has stood the test of time.

According to the petition, there has been complaint that  Engr. Jennifer Adghije increased the staff promotion pass mark to 75% for all cadres of staff.

“This is a significant departure from the existing criteria of 60% for junior and mid-cadre staff and 65% for management staff. Engr. Adighije wants to implement the new promotion criteria without prior consultation or notice.

“This unilateral decision will have far-reaching, negative effects on staff in the following ways:

1. Demotivation: Many staff who have worked diligently under the current criteria may feel their efforts are being undermined, leading to decreased morale and productivity.

2. Increased Stress and Anxiety: The sudden change creates uncertainty, anxiety, and pressure on staff to meet an unrealistic target, impacting mental well-being and job satisfaction.

3. High Attrition Rates: Talented staff may seek opportunities elsewhere, leading to brain drain and loss of institutional knowledge.

4. Reduced Performance: The stringent criteria may discourage staff from taking on additional responsibilities, stifling innovation and growth.

5. Erosion of Trust: The lack of consultation and transparency may damage staff confidence in management, breeding mistrust and discontent,” the staff said in the petition to the Board of NDPHC which has the following Governors as members: Ekiti State (South West) – Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Akwa Ibom State (South South) – Governor Umo Bassey Eno, Borno State (North East) – Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, Imo State (South East) – Governor Hope Odidika Uzodinma, Katsina State (North West) – Governor Dikko Umar Adda and Kwara State (North Central) – Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

The staff, it was gathered, want the “Board and and the Nigerian Senate to review Engr. Jennifer Adghije’s decision, reinstate the original criteria, and compel her to engage the stakeholders at NDPHC in discussions on any future changes, to ensure fairness, transparency, and consistency in our promotion process.

“Sir, These are the key points of concerns of this petition
*Existing criteria: 60% (junior/mid-cadre) 65% (management),
* Proposed change: 75% across the board without any consultation with staff or unions

“We respectfully request an urgent review and reversal of this decision.”