In this compelling interview, Professor Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), delivers a thought-provoking assessment of the Nigerian Federal Civil Service. With a deep understanding of governance and reform, Prof. Olaopa highlights the resilience of civil servants in the face of systemic challenges, while emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to unlock the service’s full potential.
From restoring integrity and reviving the merit system to fostering collaboration and accountability, Prof. Olaopa paints a vision of a more capable and effective civil service. He also commends the remarkable strides made by the Head of Civil Service in her first 100 days, lauding her focus on continuity, team spirit, and impactful leadership.
This interview is a must-read for anyone passionate about Nigeria’s governance, offering sharp insights into the strategies and aspirations shaping the future of the Federal Civil Service.
How would you describe the role of the civil service in governance today?
The civil service remains the backbone of governance. Despite systemic and structural constraints, its resilience has been proven time and again. To this extent, one can confidently say that the civil service continues to uphold its vital role in supporting governance and policy implementation.
What is your assessment of the performance of the civil service?
While the performance level could certainly be higher, the critical reforms needed to address structural gaps have not been fully implemented. This limits the overall effectiveness of the service. Civil servants are working under challenging circumstances with weak incentives, which past reforms have sought to address but are still a work in progress.
What reforms are needed to make the civil service more effective?
Nigeria deserves a more capable and efficient civil service to enhance service delivery and improve overall government effectiveness. Addressing weaknesses in the system will also help minimize exploitation by a few civil servants who take advantage of these vulnerabilities for criminal activities and corruption.
How is the Federal Civil Service repositioning plan addressing these challenges?
The repositioning plan is comprehensive, innovative, and strategic. It recognizes the need for alignment between the Federal Civil Service Commission and the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation. Collaboration is key to ensuring the plan’s success. Additionally, metrics for performance measurement, modernization of processes, and holding stakeholders accountable are critical components of the strategy.
What has been the impact of the President’s performance bonds initiative?
The performance bonds signed with key players reflect a commitment to measurable outcomes and accountability in governance. This aligns with the Federal Civil Service’s goal of improving performance management, and it challenges us to concretize our strategies for greater administrative impact across the nation.
What is your impression of the new Head of the Civil Service’s first 100 days in office?
Her tenure has been outstanding so far. She has fostered a spirit of collaboration, continuity, and focus. She has seamlessly integrated into ongoing reforms, successfully run the National Council on Establishments, and conducted tenure renewals and other key exercises for permanent secretaries. This demonstrates her preparedness and determination to make a meaningful impact.
How can civil servants contribute to the future of the Federal Civil Service?
Civil servants have a unique opportunity to make the service greater by cooperating with leadership and bringing innovative ideas to the table. Platforms like the “war rooms” she has established provide avenues for strategic communication and collaboration. With a committed leadership team, there is immense potential for growth and transformation in the service.
What is the key focus for the civil service moving forward?
The focus is on restoring integrity, strengthening gatekeeping responsibilities, and re-establishing the merit system as a cornerstone of competency-based human resource management. This collective determination will ensure a more professional and impactful civil service.