By Victoria Onyisi
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs.Didi Walson-Jack, has advocated for synergy between the Federal and State Civil Services to promote a more innovative, responsive and citizen-centered Civil Service.
She underscores that both the Federal and State Civil Services must work as a team and share their successes.
She said, “We are privileged to be part of a Civil Service that is composed of a wealth of diverse and talented individuals whose rich experiences, knowledge and expertise is an asset to the collective mission of a more efficient and impactful Civil Service.
Walson-Jack disclosed this during the maiden virtual interactive meeting with the Heads of Civil Service in the 36 States and the FCT. The HCSF said the meeting is an opportunity to share ideas and invaluable inputs that will collectively enhance the services provided to Nigerians. She assured of her commitment to leveraging her skills and experience to realize the vision of delivering a world-class service that drives significant national development.
THE HCSF further promised that, “the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation will make concerted efforts to ensure that we strengthen the lines of communication , so that you can benefit from what we have done and we also can benefit from innovations that have taken place at the States”.
Mrs. Eno Olotu, Spokesperson for the Office, quoted Walson-Jack, as saying that her vision was to build on the successes of her predecessor, “as well as embarking on conquering new frontiers as we pursue building the Nigeria of our dreams, I request for your support and collaboration in this regard”, she added.
While acknowledging that the civil service serves as the engine of governance for citizen’s benefits, the HCSF commended the Heads of Service in the States for their tireless service and dedication to upholding the values of accountability, meritocracy, professionalism, loyalty and efficiency in the Civil Service.
The HCSF also informed the states Heads of Service that the Federal Civil Service is vigorously driving the Federal Civil Service Strategies and Implementation plan FCSSIP25 which provides a structured approach, centred on six (6) key Pillars and Enablers, aimed at transforming the service.
She therefore advised states that are yet to key into the FCSSIP initiative of the Federal Service to embrace and implement the Vision in their states.
At the feedback session during the virtual meeting, Heads of Service from several states including : Lagos, Benue, Ekiti, Nasarawa, Oyo, Ogun, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Abia amongst others who spoke separately, eulogised the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for her wisdom in convening the meeting, being the first of its kind.
They stressed the importance of such collaboration between the Federal and State Services to share ideas and knowledge and also addressing challenges in the line of their duties.
On the HCSF team present were: Permanent Secretary. Service Policies and Strategies Office, Dr Deborah Odoh, Director, overseeing Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, Dr Comfort Adeosun, Senior Special Assistant to Mr President on Civil Service Matters, Mr Alfred Abah, Director (OHSCF), Mr. Adebayo Odejimi and Director, ODD, Dr Mimi Abu