Head of the Civil Service of the Federation of Nigeria, Didi Walson-Jack, has advocated for solid partnership amongst Federal Permanent Secretaries to further foster the progress of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan of 2021-2025.
This is according to a statement released on Monday, September 9, 2024, by the Director of Press in the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Eno Olotu, to newsmen.
Mrs Walson-Jack, who spoke at the inaugural retreat for Federal Permanent Secretaries emphasised that the already laid down plan is not just a document but strategies to birth a more citizen-focused public service.
She said,: “This plan is not just a document but a strategic roadmap that will shape a more efficient, accountable, and citizen-focused public service.”
The retreat, with the theme,: “Accelerating Public Service Reforms Towards Effective Service Delivery”, took place from September 5th to 7th, 2024, in Zuba, Niger State.
While delivering her keynote address, Mrs Walson-Jack pointed out that Permanent Secretaries’ have a critical role in bridging policy formulation and execution.
She also urged them to align their plans and operations with the objectives of the FCSSIP-25 to ensure effective implementation and uphold the principles of good governance for the betterment of the nation.
“You are the anchors that uphold our governance principles within the MDAs. The trust Nigerians have placed in you reflects your commitment and responsibility” she said.
The Head of Service commended the Permanent Secretaries for their dedication to maintaining the service’s values and standards, while further calling on them to see themselves as custodians of institutional knowledge, saddled with the responsibility of serving Nigeria with integrity and not with bias.
She also reassured the permanent secretaries of her commitment to supporting them in every way possible, most especially in providing guidance, resources, and solutions to overcome challenges that spring up and in ensuring that the civil service meets its target and objectives.
In her words :“Together, we will navigate difficulties and find solutions that serve our country’s best interests. You can count on my unwavering support,” she assured, instilling a sense of reassurance and confidence in the audience.
“By embracing these values, we build a stronger civil service and restore confidence in the Nigerian people,” she noted, urging for a cultural shift within the civil service towards transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
The Head of Service also pointed out the need for the permanent secretaries to embrace and accommodate certain core values, such as professionalism, loyalty, accountability, meritocracy, and efficiency as a road map to their leadership.
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