Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, HCSF, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, said the federal government is committed to building a world-class public service.
Walson-Jack made this known Wednesday in Abuja at a World Press Conference ahead of the International Civil Service Conference and the African Public Service Week scheduled for June 25-26 in Abuja.
She said a recent study tour to Singapore was part of preparatory activities aimed at positioning the civil service for excellence and attract global participation in the upcoming events.
“The study tour to Singapore was the first major activity we undertook under the collaboration between the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the Heads of Service of the 36 states and the FCT,” she said.
According to her, the visit, supported by the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, involves 20 State Heads of Service and was designed to benchmark good global practices and enhance Nigeria’s public service delivery.
“The idea was borne out of our ongoing collaboration, where we share ideas and knowledge across federal and state levels.
“Singapore was chosen because it is globally recognised for excellence in public service,” she explained.
Walson-Jack noted that the second phase of the tour will involve the remaining 17 Heads of Service later this year.
She said the tour provided participants with the opportunity to engage public and private sector institutions in Singapore, compare administrative practices and gain insights into global standards.
“It was an eye-opener and a capacity-building opportunity.
“Since our return, several state civil services have begun implementing reforms in collaboration with the federal service, particularly in areas such as capability development and digital transformation,” she added.
She disclosed that Nigeria would host a reciprocal study tour during the upcoming African Public Service Week, where foreign delegates will engage with various federal institutions.
“They will see firsthand, our digitalisation efforts, performance management systems and other reform initiatives aimed at transforming our civil service.
“We hope the experience will inspire similar actions in their home countries,” she said. NAN
