Building a strong and virile civil service in Nigeria – By Dr Frank Peter Ombugadu
The recent commentary on the state of Nasarawa State’s civil service is a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s public service sector. The article rightly points out that a functional and professional civil service is the backbone of every successful government, and Nasarawa State is no exception.
The symptoms of a weak civil service are evident: poor policy execution, inconsistent advice to political leaders, and a general decline in governance outcomes. These are not unique to Nasarawa State, but rather a reflection of a broader national challenge. The lack of competence, exposure, and administrative discipline among civil servants is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention.
The solution lies in establishing a Bureau for Public Service Reforms, an institution that can drive capacity building, digital transformation, performance evaluation, and accountability across ministries and agencies. This is not a novel idea, but it is one that has been neglected for far too long.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has a unique opportunity to lead the charge for civil service reform. This is by prioritizing this critical aspect of governance, so that he can set the state on a path towards sustainable development and prosperity.
The benefits of a strong and virile civil service are numerous. A professional and competent civil service can provide sound policy advice, ensure effective implementation of government programs, and enhance accountability and transparency. This, in turn, can attract investment, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for citizens.
The time for action is now. The Nasarawa State Government must take bold steps to establish a Bureau for Public Service Reforms and drive the much-needed reforms. The federal government must also play its part by providing the necessary support and resources to strengthen the civil service across the country.
Let us, therefore, join forces with the government to build a strong and virile civil service in Nigeria, one that is capable of driving the nation’s development agenda and delivering on the promises of democracy.
I am Dr Frank Peter Ombugadu still being modest in adding value and substance to the reservoir and storehouse of knowledge and education
