Tinubu Pledges Support for Civil Service, Calls for Accountability
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s commitment to empowering and professionalising the Nigerian civil service to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a statement issued by Director of Communications, Mohammed Ahmed, the President represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the 2024 Civil Service Award and Gala Night, commended the dedication of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, in driving key reforms.
“I have provided all the necessary support to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to ensure the continued stability of the Service and to implement far-reaching policies and reforms capable of improving efficiency and service delivery,” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu, however, expressed dismay over revelations that some civil servants have been drawing salaries while residing abroad without formally resigning.
He directed that the culprits be made to refund the illegally collected funds and their supervisors be punished for aiding the fraud.
“The culprits must be made to refund the money they have fraudulently collected. Their supervisors and department heads must also be punished for aiding and abetting the fraud under their watch,” he said.
The President praised the civil servants honoured at the event for their exemplary service, integrity, and dedication, urging them to continue striving for excellence in service to the nation.
In her remarks, Yemi-Esan highlighted the Office of the Head of Service’s efforts to institute an incentive system that rewards high performance and innovation, while addressing underperformance.
She also disclosed various partnerships and initiatives aimed at enhancing the value proposition for civil servants, including an Endowment Fund, entrepreneurship programs, and affordable housing schemes.
The event saw the presentation of various awards, including the Star Prize of a brand new 2023 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV, which went to a Director in the Ministry of Transportation, Dr. Mercy Olanike Ilori.
