In alignment with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCSSIP25), Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, reaffirms the resolute dedication of the Office to bolstering innovation within the Public Service.
During the 4th Annual Federal Civil Service Innovation Competition’s Award Ceremony held on Monday, 25th March 2024, Dr. Yemi-Esan reiterated the Office’s steadfast commitment to maintaining and fortifying structures aimed at fostering innovation within the Public Service. She underscored the competition’s inception in 2020 as part of broader efforts to revitalize and reform the Public Service, with the overarching goal of devising novel ideas and mechanisms to render services more cost-effective, of higher quality, and more accessible to the citizenry.
Since its inception, the Civil Service has successfully implemented several in-house solutions, including the Compro Computer Based Test (CBT) Application for Confirmation Exams, the Anonymous Reporting System (ARS) for whistleblowing, and the Office Space Management Solution. These initiatives have significantly improved operational efficiency and service delivery within the Federal Secretariat Complex, Abuja.
Dr. Yemi-Esan further highlighted recent advancements, such as the commencement of Pre-Promotion Training for Officers on Salary Grade Level 14. Notably, the mock assessment exam was conducted using a web-based application developed by an officer within the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. The application, which guarantees security and real-time assessment, exemplifies the Office’s commitment to leveraging internal expertise for innovation.
The Head of Civil Service emphasized that the realization of innovation potential within the Civil Service requires active engagement and the provision of conducive work environments. She debunked misconceptions regarding the lack of innovation within the Civil Service, reaffirming the Office’s dedication to overturning such notions.
Dr. Yemi-Esan underscored the alignment of the Office’s innovation drive with Priority point number seven (7) of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on accelerating diversification through industrialization, digitization, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation. She emphasized that achieving this priority is paramount to unlocking other areas outlined in the agenda, particularly Priority Area 8 – Improving governance for effective service delivery.
Acknowledging the significance of collaborative efforts, Dr. Yemi-Esan called for continuous support from stakeholders, both public and private, to elevate Nigeria’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index. She emphasized that the Nigeria Civil Service cannot achieve this feat alone and encouraged collective action toward this endeavor.
In recognition of innovative excellence, the Office announced a prize pool for winners of the Federal Civil Service Innovation Competition, with the Star Prize Winner receiving Three Million Naira (N3,000,000), among other awards.
In her Opening Remarks, Dr. Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Special Duties Office (OHCSF), reiterated the Office’s commitment to building a world-class, effective, and responsive Civil Service through the institutionalization of innovation.
Goodwill messages from dignitaries including the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Chairman Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters, Senator Oluwole Fasuyi, lauded the Office’s visionary leadership and the positive impact of the innovation competition on the competitiveness and efficiency of the Civil Service.
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