By Dele Ogbodo
The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) has taken a significant step towards driving innovation and reform in Nigeria’s public service with the official inauguration of its 26-member Ministerial Service Innovation Committee (MSIC).
This move underscores the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP 2025), which emphasizes innovation as a key pillar to drive service delivery.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, was supported by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation. The Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement Department, Mr. Naziru Abbas, delivered a speech on behalf of Permanent Secretary Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, highlighting the importance of innovation in driving economic growth, public sector efficiency and responsive governance.
The Director, Press and Public Relations, of the Ministry, Dr. Adebayo Thomas, informed journalists via a statement that the MSIC is primed with spearheading transformative initiatives aimed at improving internal processes, enhancing service delivery and aligning the Ministry’s operations with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to Thomas, the committee’s key functions include: Scouting for Innovative Ideas – Identifying and enhancing service innovation concepts that can significantly improve the Ministry’s operations and service delivery.
“Embedding a culture of innovation – Promoting innovative thinking through capacity building, brainstorming sessions, and staff engagement.
“Recognizing Top Performers – Leveraging high achievers within the Ministry and its partners to inform strategic decision-making.
“Aligning with National Goals – Ensuring all innovation efforts are in tune with the broader national development agenda under the Renewed Hope vision.” He said.
On her part, Mrs. Agu Jachinma, Deputy Director of Reform, Coordination, and Service Improvement, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to public sector reform, praising the leadership of the Ministers and Permanent Secretary for empowering a reform-oriented workforce.
She said: “The inauguration of this committee is a testament to our resolve to institutionalize innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement,” she said. “Everyone has a role to play—reform is a shared responsibility.”
The Deputy Director, Service Innovation Department, Mr. Henry Nwaedo, outlined the committee’s core responsibilities, including conducting needs assessments, strategizing actionable solutions, fostering collaboration, providing feedback loops, and developing realistic recommendations.
The MSIC is poised to become the internal think tank of the Ministry, shaping strategies, policies, and practices that will meet and exceed the expectations of Nigeria’s citizens and stakeholders.
With this initiative, Thomas, said, FMITI reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation and reform in Nigeria’s public service, aligning with its mission to foster growth, empower trade, and attract investment.
