In a stern address at the 2024 Civil Service Week Award and Gala Night in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu announced that Nigerian civil servants who have relocated abroad but continue to draw salaries will face severe penalties. Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the President stressed that the government is committed to holding those involved accountable and ensuring that the illicitly received funds are returned.
President Tinubu underscored the necessity for strict adherence to rules within the Nigerian Civil Service, stating that it must not become a place where misconduct is tolerated without repercussions. “Culprits must be made to refund the money they have fraudulently collected, and their supervisors and Department Heads must also be punished for aiding and abetting the fraud under their watch,” he declared. He emphasized that a well-disciplined civil service is crucial for effective governance and the delivery of public services.
Highlighting the Civil Service as the cornerstone of the government, essential for executing national development plans and projects, Tinubu expressed his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within the sector. He reaffirmed his dedication to improving the welfare and development of civil servants to enhance their performance for national growth.
President Tinubu also lauded the efforts of Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, for steering reforms aimed at building a world-class service rooted in meritocracy and excellence. He urged civil servants to recognize their pivotal role in achieving national potential and praised their contributions to nation-building, emphasizing their dedication and the diverse, professional workforce committed to a better Nigeria.
Reflecting on the drive to align the Civil Service’s strategic plan with the priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President expressed satisfaction with the progress and encouraged continued efforts to uphold the highest standards of integrity and efficiency in public service.