Business as Usual No Longer Acceptable in Nigerian Civil Service – Walson-Jack
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| The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack |
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has declared that the era of “business as usual” is over in the Nigerian civil service. She called for a bold transformation to address the evolving demands of the 21st century.
Walson-Jack delivered this message during her keynote address at the inaugural International Civil Service Conference, jointly hosted by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Global Government Forum UK.
She described the conference as the launchpad of a new era—one focused on renewal, innovation, and progressive reform—uniting reformers, policymakers, and practitioners who believe in the civil service as a powerful instrument for national development and global stability.
“The civil service stands at a critical crossroads,” she said. “The systems we inherited were designed for a different time. Yet, we are now confronted with 21st-century challenges such as rapid urbanisation, digital disruption, climate shocks, pandemics, and the growing call for equity and inclusion.”
Stressing the urgency for change, Walson-Jack said, “We must revitalise the spirit, sharpen the skills, and restructure the framework of the civil service. This includes attracting young, dynamic talent, empowering women and marginalised groups, and rebuilding public trust through value-driven service.”
She also urged a shift away from outdated bureaucratic norms, advocating for innovation in both policymaking and service delivery.
“Bureaucracy must not equate to stagnation. It’s time to reimagine how we develop policies, embrace technology, and deliver real, measurable outcomes,” she stated.
“Time is no longer a luxury. Citizens are demanding results, the climate is shifting, and resources are limited. We must move swiftly—from planning to execution—with purpose and urgency.”
The conference convenes global thought leaders and experts to help shape the future of the civil service and position Nigeria as a frontrunner in public sector reform.
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