President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive mandating that all civil servants who have relocated abroad while still drawing salaries from the Nigerian government must refund the money received. This directive underscores the government’s commitment to tackling fraud within the civil service and ensuring that public funds are used appropriately.
In addition to holding the primary offenders accountable, President Tinubu has decreed that the supervisors and department heads of these individuals should also face punitive measures for their complicity in this fraudulent activity. This decision aims to create a culture of accountability and responsibility within the civil service, ensuring that such practices are not tolerated or overlooked.
The President’s directive was announced during an award night organized by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, part of the events commemorating the 2024 Civil Service Week. The occasion was also an opportunity to recognize and honor outstanding civil servants in various core ministries, celebrating their dedication and contributions to the nation.
President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, expressed his dismay at the existence of ghost workers within the civil service. He highlighted the importance of addressing this issue decisively to maintain the integrity of the civil service system.
“During my recent visit to South Africa, I kept abreast of the week’s activities. I was particularly struck by the revelations the Head of the Civil Service shared regarding employees who had relocated abroad while drawing salaries without formally resigning,” said Tinubu.
“It is heartening to hear that measures have been taken to address this issue, but we must ensure those responsible are held accountable and restitution is made. The culprits must be made to refund the money they have fraudulently collected. Their supervisors and department heads must also be punished for aiding and abetting the fraud under their watch.”
President Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to taking appropriate measures to ensure that the funds are refunded and those involved are punished. He emphasized the necessity of restoring trust and efficiency within the civil service to better serve the nation’s development goals.
Acknowledging the broader challenges faced by the civil service sector, the President reiterated his administration’s dedication to improving the welfare and professional development of all civil servants. He stressed that optimal performance from civil servants is crucial for national growth and development.
“Our administration acknowledges the challenges the civil service is facing. I want to assure you that we are committed to ensuring the welfare and development of all civil servants to deliver optimal performance for the growth of our nation. Over the past year, I have provided all the necessary support to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to ensure the continued stability of the civil service. I also supported the office in implementing far-reaching policies and reforms capable of improving efficiency and service delivery,” said the President.
The award night also featured the presentation of top prizes to outstanding civil servants, with Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, announcing the winners.
“The Star Prize is a Brand New 2023 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV; the second is a 2 Bedroom semi-detached bungalow; and the third top prize is a serviced plot of land measuring 400 sqm. I am also pleased to announce that the Nigeria Customs Service has graciously committed to donating six Toyota Camry Cars in support of the 2024 Civil Service Week. The office has started receiving the vehicles, and these will be presented as prizes to the next set of runner-up best-performing officers,” she said.
These recognitions and rewards aim to motivate civil servants, fostering a culture of excellence and dedication within the public sector. The government’s efforts to address fraud and enhance civil service performance demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and national progress.
