Tag: Walson-Jack

‎The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has declared that Nigerians will no longer be bystanders in governance but active participants in shaping the future of the nation’s civil service.

‎Speaking at the inaugural Stakeholders and Citizens Engagement Forum in Abuja, themed “Strengthening Service Delivery through Citizens and Stakeholders Engagement”, Walson-Jack said the event signalled a turning point in how government interacts with the people it serves.

‎She noted that, for too long, citizen voices and stakeholder input were largely absent from the policy and performance process of the civil service, but that era is ending. 

Direct engagement, she stressed, will now be at the heart of public sector reforms, ensuring government listens, responds and co-creates solutions with the public.

‎She said the forum would be institutionalised as a regular avenue for honest dialogue, problem-solving and joint ownership of reforms. 

Civil society groups and the media, she added, remain crucial in ensuring transparency and keeping the service accountable.

‎“Your voice is not just welcome; it is essential to our progress and to restoring public trust. When the government and the governed collaborate in trust, the nation thrives,” She stated.

‎She said public trust is a two-way street and urged citizens to engage constructively, utilise the platforms being created, and work with government to identify solutions that improve service delivery.

‎Walson-Jack explained that the forum is part of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP25), which is now in its final phase.

‎The plan, she said, has brought tangible results, including the signing of measurable performance contracts by all civil servants to replace the old annual appraisal system, a service-wide personnel audit and skills gap analysis to ensure the right people are in the right roles, a clean-up of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to eliminate waste and fraud, and the introduction of merit-based recognition for outstanding officers.

Read Also: Nigeria to host 2025 international civil service conference – Walson-Jack

‎She also highlighted the digitisation drive which has seen over 34,000 civil servants assigned official GovMail addresses, the migration of records and services to the secure 1-GOV cloud platform, and the target to achieve full digitalisation of core processes by December 2025.

‎She announced that citizens, civil society, development partners and the private sector will be extensively consulted in shaping the successor plan to FCSSIP25, ensuring reforms reflect diverse perspectives from across the country.

‎She also revealed preparations for the 2026 International Civil Service Conference, which will involve greater participation from academia, civil society and international experts in designing smarter, citizen-focused governance models.

‎According to her, “An active citizenry is the bedrock of a responsive government. Hold us accountable, but also work with us. When you experience improvement, amplify it; when you encounter lapses, constructively point them out.”

‎Calling on public servants to treat the remaining months of FCSSIP25 as a “final sprint”, Walson-Jack urged them to consolidate gains, address gaps and take personal responsibility for reforms. She encouraged them to solve problems proactively, innovate in their daily work, and deepen their ownership of the transformation agenda.

‎She credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s clear commitment to civil service reform for providing the political will needed to drive change, citing the successful 2025 Civil Service Week and maiden International Civil Service Conference as examples of impactful, self-funded initiatives.

‎She maintained that the goal of an Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible, and Citizen-Centred Civil Service is not a mere slogan but a standard to be upheld daily.

‎“No nation can progress in silos. A reformed Civil Service that engages its citizens is one that can design better policies, deliver services more effectively, and ultimately make life better for the people,” she said.

A civil society group, Pro-Impact Initiative, has defended Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), and Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), over the recent controversy surrounding the terminal leave at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF).

Recall that Madein, who is due for retirement in 2025, was alleged to have resumed at her desk rather than proceed on a terminal leave after receiving a directive from the HCSF extending her tenure until March 7, 2025

The group praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to allow AGF Madein to complete her tenure before appointing a successor, asserting that the decision was in line with established procedures.

Addressing journalists in Abuja over the weekend, the group’s Coordinator, Osamudiamen Isokpehi, clarified that neither Madein nor Walson-Jack had violated the Public Service Rules (PSR), countering reports that suggested a three-month pre-retirement leave was mandatory. 

He pointed to examples like former Head of Service Stephen Oronsaye, who did not take pre-retirement leave, and Folasade Yemi-Esan, who transitioned without such leave, saying “The PSR requires officers to provide a three-month notice before retirement, which includes attending a one-month pre-retirement seminar and using the remaining time for administrative preparations. 

“However, there is no obligation for officers to take pre-retirement leave.” 

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Isokpehi, however, commended President Tinubu for his decision, describing it as consistent with civil service protocols and in the national interest. 

“The President is an experienced leader who understands the complexities of governance.

“Having been a two-term governor of Lagos State and a seasoned administrator, he has always adhered to established processes.”

The group also dismissed claims of unrest within the Office of the Accountant-General, assuring that operations have continued smoothly under Madein’s leadership. 

“There is no panic or anxiety among the staff. Work is progressing efficiently, and employees remain dedicated to their responsibilities,” Isokpehi said.

He called on critics to refrain from using civil service rules to advance personal agendas and urged Nigerians to reject attempts to politicize the tenure of public officials.

“Our focus should be on strengthening institutions, not undermining them with baseless accusations,” Isokpehi said.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, yesterday showcased the reforms she introduced to reshape and reposition the Federal civil service for better performance.

The reforms are among the programmes she unveiled to mark her 100 days in office.

Addressing reporters in Abuja, Mrs. Walson-Jack highlighted the essence of innovation, accountability and efficiency in public service delivery.

She said some of the initiatives were designed to modernise the civil service, including the introduction of a Performance Management System to promote accountability, the launch of the Federal Civil Service Online Academy to upskill civil servants, and the rollout of the Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system across key ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to improve operational efficiency.

To streamline communication, Mrs. Walson-Jack also unveiled an official email platform for civil servants and an online compendium of circulars, called GovMail.

The HoCSF explained that cultural transformation had been a focal point, with the dissemination of the Federal Civil Service Anthem and a Culture Change Video to inspire pride and professionalism among civil servants.

Showcasing the essence of welfare to the workforce, she also rolled out initiatives to improve the quality of life for civil servants.

These included a partnership with the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation to provide affordable credit and enhanced onboarding programmes for new employees.

Mrs. Walson-Jack spoke about the need to foster collaboration through regular meetings with workers and unions to address concerns and ensure inclusivity in decision-making.

Read Also: MTEF/FSP: How removing fuel subsidy, floating exchange rate curbed sudden wealth– Edun

In her first 100 days, the HoCSF represented Nigeria on the global stage, delivering a speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to reinforce the nation’s commitment to eradicating poverty and enhancing food security.

She spearheaded efforts to align federal and state civil services and introduced competitions to spark innovation within the civil service.

Mrs. Walson-Jack expressed gratitude for the support she had received from all quarters and reaffirmed her commitment to creating a professional, globally competitive civil service.

“The work of transforming the Federal Civil Service is a continuous process, one that requires dedication, collaboration, and resilience.

“Together, we can build a civil service that is innovative, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, on Monday, November 25, highlighted transformative reforms aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s Federal Civil Service.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Walson-Jack detailed initiatives designed to drive innovation, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery

In her first 100 days, Walson-Jack also represented Nigeria on the global stage, delivering a speech at the United Nations General Assembly to reinforce the nation’s commitment to eradicating poverty and enhancing food security.

She spearheaded efforts to align federal and state civil services and introduced competitions to spark innovation within the civil service.

Walson-Jack expressed gratitude for the support received and reaffirmed her commitment to creating a professional, globally competitive civil service.

Read Also: How civil servants can aid delivery of Renewed Hope agenda — HoS, Walson-Jack

She announced the launch of initiatives designed to modernize the civil service.

These include the introduction of a Performance Management System to promote accountability, the launch of the Federal Civil Service Online Academy to upskill civil servants, and the rollout of the Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system across key MDAs to improve operational efficiency.

To streamline communication, GovMail, an official email platform for civil servants and an online compendium of circulars were also introduced.

She revealed that cultural transformation has been a focal point, with the dissemination of the Federal Civil Service Anthem and a Culture Change Video to inspire pride and professionalism among civil servants.

Recognizing the importance of welfare, Walson-Jack rolled out initiatives to improve the quality of life for civil servants.

These include a partnership with the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation to provide affordable credit and enhanced onboarding programs for new employees.

She also emphasised fostering collaboration through regular meetings with staff and unions to address concerns and ensure inclusivity in decision-making.

 “The work of transforming the Federal Civil Service is a continuous process, one that requires dedication, collaboration, and resilience.

“Together, we can build a civil service that is innovative, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said.

The newly appointed Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has vowed to enhance and build upon the foundation set by her predecessor, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, as outlined in the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCSSIP-25).

Walson-Jack made this commitment during her official assumption of office on Wednesday, August 14, in Abuja, where she was welcomed by Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and staff members.

In her address, the HoSF expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for her appointment and the trust placed in her.

Read Also: Walson-Jack takes oath as HoCSF

She pledged to vigorously advance ongoing reform initiatives within the Civil Service and fulfill the mandates of her office in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

Mrs. Walson-Jack emphasized her intention to leverage technology as an essential tool for driving transformation in the Civil Service and called on staff to adopt a more proactive approach to service delivery.

Earlier, Raymond Omachi, Permanent Secretary of the Common Services Office, assured the HoSF of the staff’s commitment to duty and unwavering loyalty to the system.

• Fubara hails appointment

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF).

The ceremony took place at 1 p.m. in the Council Chamber of the Aso Rock Villa yesterday in Abuja before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.

Walson-Jack takes over from Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, who retired yesterday, having assumed office on March 4, 2020.

President Tinubu had approved Walson-Jack’s appointment on July 17, nearly a month before her official swearing-in.

At the ceremony, President Tinubu acknowledged the essence of Walson-Jack’s new position to the nation’s civil service.

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He said: “You’re stepping into very big shoes, and we pray that God continues to guide you, provide you with wisdom, and enhance your integrity to serve this country and the civil service in the most successful way.”

The President expressed gratitude to Dr. Yemi-Esan for her “exceptional tenure” and dedication to the nation.

“As she steps down, we express our deep gratitude for her unwavering commitment to the service of her country,” President Tinubu said.

Walson-Jack, born on August 27, 1966, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos and was called to Bar in 1987.

Her distinguished career includes the Solicitor-General of Bayelsa State and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, a position she held from July 2002.

She began her federal civil service career at the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, where she was the pioneer State Coordinator of the Rivers State Office.

An alumna of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Plateau State, Walson-Jack recently served as the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Education, a position she assumed in January.

Also, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing and swearing in Walson-Jack as the new HoCSF.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Nelson Chukwudi, said Walson-Jack’s distinguished and exceptional public service career would inspire many young girls in the state to strive to achieve great heights in their life.

“As you assume duties as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation effective August 14, we are proud of the significant milestone you have achieved in your public service career,” he said.

Fubara emphasised that President Tinubu’s thoughtfulness and belief in merit in appointing Walson-Jack was worthy of emulation.

The governor hailed the President for displaying fatherly disposition towards all Nigerians.

He noted that Mr. President showed that he remained a leader with commitment to fairness, justice, and national integration, while upholding the principles of federal character in his administration.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday approved the designation of Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack as the next Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF).

Mrs. Walson-Jack, whose appointment will take effective on August 14, will succeed incumbent Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, who will bow out of the service on August 13.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, who issued a statement of the HoCSF appointment, described Mrs. Walson-Jack as a seasoned civil servant.

Since her appointed as a permanent secretary in 2017, Mrs. Walson-Jack has served in various ministries.

According the statement, President Tinubu has charged the HoCSF-in waiting to bring innovative ideas, integrity, and a strong commitment to the rules and regulations of the civil service.

It reads: “President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, with effect from August 14, 2024.

Read Also: Tinubu appoints Walson-Jack as new Head of the Civil Service

“Mrs. Walson-Jack was appointed as federal permanent secretary in 2017 and has served in several ministries.

“The new appointee will take over from the incumbent HoCSF, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, who is due to retire on August 13, 2024”, the statement said.

The President has also expressed gratitude to the outgoing Head of Service for her dedication and stewardship.

“President Tinubu, while thanking the outgoing Head of Service for her stewardship, tasks the incoming Head of Service to discharge her duties with innovative flair, integrity, and stringent adherence to the extant rules and regulations of the civil service of the federation.”