FG prioritises digital governance, unveils measures to modernise civil service operations

The Federal Government has announced a renewed push toward full digital transformation of the civil service, positioning technology-driven governance as the backbone of future public service delivery.

Speaking at the 47th National Council on Establishments in Kano on Wednesday, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, said the government is implementing reforms designed to modernise operations, enhance accountability, and overhaul workplace culture across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Walson-Jack revealed that an ongoing Personnel Audit and Skills Gap Analysis is central to the reforms, noting that the initiative goes beyond cleaning payrolls to redefining how the public service identifies, deploys and grows talent.

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“This audit will give us an accurate picture of workforce competencies and help reposition the service for strategic training, targeted recruitment and efficient deployment,” she said, adding that the system will support a merit-driven public sector equipped for contemporary challenges.

She also reaffirmed the government’s target to achieve a fully paperless civil service by December 31, 2025. All MDAs, she said, have been directed to accelerate their migration to the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), which will digitise records, streamline workflows and strengthen transparency.

To reinforce workplace ethics and performance, Walson-Jack disclosed that the Federal Executive Council has approved three new policy frameworks: the Rewards and Recognition System, Incentives and Consequence Management, and Mentoring Policy and Guidelines. These are expected to institutionalise excellence, mentorship and succession planning.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kaduna State, who hosted the council, used the occasion to highlight his administration’s efforts to revitalise the state’s public service. He said Kano has already cleared over half of the ₦48 billion backlog of inherited retirement benefits and is on course to offset the remaining balance.

Yusuf noted that his government has improved promotions, training opportunities and working conditions to restore dignity and motivation among civil servants.

Both leaders urged stakeholders to reflect the core values of accountability, meritocracy, professionalism and efficiency as the council continues its deliberations. Resolutions from the meeting are expected to provide a fresh framework for strengthening governance systems and enhancing public service delivery nationwide.

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