The federal government has charged senior civil servants on Grades 15 to 17 with developing the next generation of public servants and strengthening institutions. Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Olumuyiwa Enitan Abel, made the call in Abuja during an interactive session with Directorate-level officers of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Abel emphasized mentorship, accountability, innovation, and professionalism as essential to effective public administration.
Abel noted that the Directorate cadre plays a strategic role in the Civil Service, serving as a bridge between policy direction and implementation. He urged officers to see their positions beyond administrative responsibilities by mentoring younger officers, providing professional guidance, and creating an environment conducive to competence and innovation. This, he believes, will ensure that public duties are discharged with professionalism and a strong sense of purpose.
The effectiveness of government policies, according to Abel, largely depends on the quality of their implementation. He tasked directors with taking ownership of their responsibilities and ensuring that public duties are discharged with professionalism. Abel also challenged officers to embrace continuous learning and self-development, citing the need for public servants to remain open to new ideas and innovative ways of solving problems.
Abel stressed that sustainable institutional development goes beyond putting policies in place. He noted that strong institutions require leaders who can build people, promote teamwork, and enforce accountability. The interactive session provided an opportunity for Management staff to identify operational challenges and propose practical measures to improve efficiency and service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda objectives.
The interactive session also provided a platform for Directorate-level officers to engage with the Head of Service. Permanent Secretary, Common Services Office, OHCSF, Danjuma Usman Kalba, said the direct engagement demonstrated the importance attached to inclusive leadership and open communication. The session enabled officers to better understand the vision and expectations of the Head of Service.
Kalba noted that the session provided an avenue for officers to present their concerns and suggestions on improving the operations of the Office. Director of Human Resources Management and Administration, Jennifer Sharang, commended the Head of Service for the engagement and pledged the commitment of the Directorate cadre to initiatives aimed at building a more responsive and productive Civil Service.
The meeting marked the conclusion of the Head of Service's three-phase interaction with staff of the OHCSF, following earlier engagements with Junior and Mid-Level Officers. The sessions provided staff across various cadres with direct access to the Head of Service to discuss workplace challenges, exchange ideas, and contribute to efforts aimed at improving the performance of the Office.
Key points
- The federal government tasks senior civil servants to develop the next generation of public servants.
- The interactive session aimed to improve efficiency and service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda objectives.
- The engagement provided a platform for Directorate-level officers to engage with the Head of Service and present their concerns and suggestions.
