NIGERIA
A new report into the Nigerian Federal Public Service claims that nepotism is distorting both recruitment and promotions.
The report was initiated by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and launched by the Public Service’s head, Winifred Oyo-Ita (pictured).
She said that in order to reposition the Public Service towards ensuring productivity and efficient service delivery, there was a need to understand its culture, behaviour and mindset.
The report said that among the nearly 6,000 PS employees who responded to an online survey, there was a “high level of knowledge of what the Federal Civil Service stands for and of the mandate of their Ministries, Departments and Agencies”.
“However, findings also suggest that the Service is plagued with low morale and lack of motivation among employees,” the report said.
“In particular, dominant mindsets include the prevalence of nepotism in recruitment and promotion, non-conducive work environments and lack of adequate work tools; too much emphasis on seniority and ‘wait-for-your-time’ practices which stifle innovation and creativity.”
Other findings of the survey included a lack of accountability resulting in impunity, poor salaries and differences in pay structures, rigidity and bureaucratic bottlenecks and a general lack of commitment and professionalism.
Ms Oyo-Ita said the Public Service was ageing, with a large number of retirees in the past two years.
“Recruiting new workers depends on the resources available … however, a strategic plan has been developed to address all the areas of concerns raised in the report,” Ms Oyo-Ita said.
Abuja, 11 July 2019
