By Emmanuella Oghenetega
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Didi Esther Walson-Jack has reaffirmed the commitment of Nigeria to global public service excellence during a recent visit by the Nigerian delegation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Global Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Sustainable Development in Singapore.
In a statement, the Director, Information and Public Relations, Eno Olotu, revealed that the visit was a significant opportunity for the delegation to draw insights and best practices in advancing civil service transformation.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Walson-Jack highlighted the critical importance of collaboration in advancing public service development in Nigeria.
She underscored the eagerness to learn from Singapore’s exemplary civil service, renowned worldwide for its efficiency, transparency, and innovation.
According to the statement, the visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the Civil Service of Nigeria and Singapore.
Both nations aimed to establish a partnership between the Global Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Sustainable Development and the Public Service Institute of Nigeria.
This collaboration will focus on joint training programmes, collaborative research, and sharing innovative solutions.
Walson-Jack stated: “this represents a beacon of hope for transforming Nigeria’s civil service into a model of professionalism, efficiency, and responsiveness.
“We look forward to joint training programmes, collaborative research, and sharing innovative solutions that will empower our civil servants with the knowledge and tools they need to excel. By working together, we can build a public service that is responsive, accountable, and dedicated to the welfare of our people and serves as a model for the continent.”
The HCSF acknowledged further the achievements of Singapore in public sector transformation, noting that the Nigerian delegation was interested and eager to draw inspiration and insights from Singapore’s successes to drive impactful changes in Nigeria’s Civil Service.
She also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the UNDP in Nigeria for organising the visit. She commended the Global Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Sustainable Development in Singapore. (formerly Global Centre for Public Service Excellence,) a key partner in this collaboration, for its warm reception and outstanding hospitality.
“The delegation’s visit reflects Nigeria’s commitment to implementing reforms and building partnerships to enhance the effectiveness of its public service. The collaboration is expected to pave the way for transformative advancements in training, policy implementation, and service delivery, promising a brighter and more efficient future for Nigeria’s Civil Service”, she stated.
The Nigerian delegation, comprising 20 Heads of State Civil Services, is the first batch in the first phase of a two-part initiative designed to enhance Nigeria’s Civil Service by leveraging the globally renowned Singapore Public Service model in line with 21st-century expectations.
