Nigerian Government Greenlights Three Essential Civil Service Policies

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Approval Details
3. A New Era of Governance
4. Overview of the Policies
5. Conclusion

The Federal Government has sanctioned three transformative policies aimed at enhancing productivity and improving service delivery within the civil service. These include the Rewards and Recognition Policy, the Incentive and Consequence Management Policy, and the Civil Service Mentoring Policy.

This approval was granted during the Federal Executive Council meeting led by President Bola Tinubu.

This initiative signifies the dawn of performance-driven governance, strategic talent development, and heightened accountability. The policies are designed to operate in harmony to inspire staff, cultivate a culture of excellence, and substantially enhance service delivery to Nigerians.

As stated by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack emphasized that these policies are fundamental to staff welfare and the improved value proposition for civil servants. They also align with the 2021 Public Service Rules (060101–060111).

She praised the President for his dedication to reforming the civil service and nurturing a workplace culture that is efficient, productive, incorruptible, and citizen-oriented. The Head of Service noted that this approval reflects the government’s strong commitment to valuing public servants, rewarding excellence, and systematically developing the next generation of leaders.

The Rewards and Recognition Policy establishes a comprehensive framework aimed at attracting, nurturing, developing, and retaining top talent within the service. Its goal is to promote excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement, thereby enhancing overall institutional performance.

The Incentive and Consequence Management Policy introduces a clear, transparent, and fair system where exceptional performance is rewarded and under-performance is addressed through structured corrective measures. It seeks to instill fairness and accountability at all levels while offering developmental support to staff who require improvement.

The Civil Service Mentoring Policy, regarded as a strategic investment in the future of the service, aims to bridge experience gaps and ensure the systematic transfer of institutional knowledge.

“This policy will equip the next generation with the necessary skills, values, and ethical foundation for strategic leadership, while preserving invaluable institutional memory amid retirements, thus ensuring continuity and sustained excellence,” the statement added.

Mrs. Walson-Jack emphasized that the President’s approval for the implementation of these policies is not just an administrative milestone but the cornerstone upon which a modern, agile, and empowered civil service will be established. She assured civil servants that their commitment will be acknowledged, excellence rewarded, and personal growth fostered.