At the award night held to commemorate the 2024 Civil Service Week, President Bola Tinubu made clear his stance on a pressing issue. He directed that any civil servant found to be receiving government salaries while residing abroad must promptly repay the funds. Additionally, he emphasized that supervisors and department heads overseeing such individuals would face disciplinary measures for their role in enabling this fraudulent activity.
The event, organized by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, not only celebrated outstanding civil servants across core ministries but also served as a platform for addressing critical issues within the civil service.
George Akume, representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, conveyed the President’s disappointment with the behavior of ghost workers.
“While in South Africa recently, I stayed updated on the week’s events. I was particularly struck by what the Head of the Civil Service disclosed about employees who have moved abroad but continue to receive salaries without formally resigning.”
“It is encouraging to learn that steps have been taken to tackle this issue, but it is crucial that those responsible are held accountable and restitution is made.
“The offenders must reimburse the funds they have deceitfully obtained.
“Additionally, their supervisors and department heads must face consequences for supporting and enabling this fraud under their supervision,” stated Tinubu.
He emphasized that the government would take decisive actions to ensure that they face penalties and reimburse the misappropriated funds to the national treasury.
The President recognized the difficulties within the civil service sector and reaffirmed his dedication to resolving them to enhance efficiency.
“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.
“Throughout the past year, I have consistently provided necessary support to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to ensure the ongoing stability of the civil service.
“I have also backed the office in implementing extensive policies and reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and service delivery,” stated the president.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, additional activities during the event included the presentation of top three prizes to the winners and the awarding of additional N500,000 cash prizes to 40 workers.
Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, the HOCSF, announced the winners of the top three prizes at the event.
“The Star Prize is a brand-new 2023 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV; the second prize is a 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalow; and the third prize is a serviced plot of land measuring 400 sqm.
“I am also delighted to announce that the Nigeria Customs Service has generously committed to donating six Toyota Camry cars in support of the 2024 Civil Service Week.
“The office has already begun receiving these vehicles, which will be presented as prizes to the next group of runner-up top-performing officers,” she explained.
