…Unveils executive master classes to deepen leadership capacity
By Seun Adams
The 12th Batch of the Mandatory Training Programme (MTP) for Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Directors-General of government parastatals and agencies have commenced at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Topo Badagry, Lagos State.
Declaring the training open, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the programme as a vital component of Pillar One (Capability Building and Talent Management) of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP-25).
She emphasized ASCON’s strategic role as a key institution for public sector capacity development.
The HCSF noted that the training provides critical onboarding for CEOs and DGs, particularly those transitioning from diverse backgrounds, and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes accountability, meritocracy, and innovation in governance.
The Director, Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu, said she announced the introduction of Executive Master Classes—a follow-up programme to the MTP—aimed at equipping senior officials with strategic governance skills tailored to Nigeria’s evolving public service landscape.
The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to ensure alignment with national development priorities.
Reflecting on reform milestones from her first 100 days in office, Mrs. Walson-Jack highlighted the launch of Service Wise GPT, the Compendium of Circulars (1995–date), and new frameworks on Mentorship, Reward and Recognition, and Consequence Management.
Underscoring the urgency of reform delivery, she directed ASCON to embed a dedicated session on FCSSIP-25 in all future MTPs to enhance alignment with national service delivery objectives.
“This training is not ceremonial—it is a strategic platform to build leadership competence, clarity, and confidence,” she stated, urging participants to uphold ethical standards and drive public service transformation.
In her welcome remarks, ASCON Director-General, Mrs. Cecilia Gayya, expressed appreciation for the HCSF’s presence, noting it was the first time a serving Head of Service formally declared the MTP open since its inception in 2020.
The HCSF was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood, SSA to the President on Civil Service Matters, Mr. Alfred Abah; and Director of Learning and Development, Mr. Elisha Benjamin.
