The Federal Government has called on 332 newly promoted directors to take on leadership roles in driving reforms within Nigeria’s civil service.
This call was made during a decoration ceremony in Abuja over the weekend, where the directors were commended for their hard work and achievements.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, addressed the newly promoted officials, highlighting that their promotions signify the beginning of a more substantial responsibility. She emphasized the importance of leadership, stating, “Leadership is not just about occupying a position but about setting a good example and leaving a legacy for others to emulate. The future of the civil service depends on your dedication, passion, and purpose.”
Walson-Jack assured the directors that her office would provide full support to help them succeed in their new roles. She pledged to offer resources, training, and guidance to ensure that they excel in their positions.
The Head of Service also commended President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing commitment to civil service reform, particularly the recent increase in the minimum wage, which has led to a notable boost in the earnings of directors across various ministries.
Walson-Jack added, “These reforms are vital for the growth of the civil service. By addressing the concerns of public servants, President Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to enhancing service delivery.”
During the ceremony, the newly promoted directors were decorated with lapels, symbolising their elevation in rank. Furthermore, Walson-Jack unveiled four key documents aimed at improving public service delivery in Nigeria. These included frameworks on Performance Management, Incentive and Consequence Management, Mentoring Policies and Guidelines, and Protocols for the Federal Government Secretariat.
She remarked, “Today, we have embarked on a collective journey to redefine the ethos of public service delivery in Nigeria. Our goal is to establish a civil service that is professional, efficient, globally competitive, and responsive to the aspirations of all Nigerians.”
The ceremony also showcased the diversity of ministries represented by the promoted directors, with key ministries such as the State House, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service, the Federal Ministries of Agriculture, Communications, Education, Environment, Foreign Affairs, Health, Housing, and more.
Among the promoted directors were Agunrege Akeem and Ogala-Akogwu Victoria Laruba from the State House, and Ugoji Felicia Mezi from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service. Notable promotions from key ministries included directors from Agriculture, Budget and Economic Planning, Communications, Education, and Health.
In the Federal Ministry of Health, the promoted officials included Kareem Abdulateef Olawunmi, Joseph Peter Olufe, and Agba Janet Catherine. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development also saw the promotion of directors like Asein Abimbola and Shonibare Ibikunle Olufemi.
The ceremony marked a significant step in reinforcing the Nigerian civil service’s capacity to meet the country’s developmental needs and challenges, with the newly promoted directors expected to play key roles in this transformation.
