Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Esther Walson-Jack has said that the era of “business as usual” is over in the Nigerian civil service, urging a transformative shift to meet 21st-century challenges.
She issued the warning during her keynote address at the inaugural International Civil Service Conference, organised by the Federal Government of Nigeria in partnership with the Global Government Forum UK.
Walson-Jack said that the conference marks the beginning of a movement for renewal, creativity, and bold progress in public service, uniting reformers, policymakers, and practitioners who believe the civil service remains a vital tool for national development and global stability.
“The civil service is at a crossroads. The systems we inherited were forged in a different era. Yet, we must now tackle 21st-century challenges, rapid urbanisation, digital disruption, climate shocks, pandemics, and rising demands for equity and inclusion,” she said.
While emphasising the need for urgent action, she said, “We must rejuvenate the spirit, skills, and structure of the civil service.
“This means attracting young talent, empowering women and marginalised groups, and rebuilding public trust through values-based service.”
The head of civil service also called for a break from bureaucratic stagnation, urging policy-making and service delivery innovation.
“Bureaucracy must not mean stagnation. We must rethink how policies are made, leverage technology, and ensure measurable change.
“Time is no longer a luxury. Citizens are waiting, the climate is changing, and resources are shrinking. We must move from plans to action, with speed and purpose,” she said.
The conference brings together global experts to shape the future of civil service and position Nigeria as a leader in public sector reform.
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