The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, addressed the public on Monday, affirming that the investigation initiated by the Federal Government, aimed at identifying civil servants who are still receiving salaries while residing abroad, is currently in progress.
In a clear response to allegations suggesting the discontinuation of this critical investigation, Walson-Jack emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the issue.
She remarked that individuals who have relocated to foreign countries in pursuit of better employment opportunities should no longer benefit financially from the Nigerian civil service system.
This statement was delivered during a significant event in Abuja, commemorating her first 100 days in office as the Head of the Civil Service. Walson-Jack took this occasion to reflect on her achievements and the current state of the civil service under her leadership.
The timing of this announcement is particularly notable as it follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu five months ago, which mandated that any civil servant found to be accessing government salaries after moving abroad must return the funds.
This investigation illustrates the government’s commitment to uphold financial integrity within the civil service sector. Walson-Jack stated, “We are diligently continuing the process by meticulously scrutinizing the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) payroll.
This effort aims to delineate between those civil servants who are actively present in the country and those who are no longer residents.” She further emphasized that the investigation is an ongoing endeavor, essential to ensuring that financial resources are not unjustly disbursed to individuals living outside the nation.
Additionally, the Head of the Civil Service noted that some progress has already been achieved in the investigation. “We will remain vigilant in monitoring the situation until it has been thoroughly resolved,” she asserted, reiterating the importance of accountability within the service.
During her address, Walson-Jack took the opportunity to express her gratitude toward her dedicated staff and highlighted the instrumental role of what she termed the ‘Super Permanent Secretaries’ in facilitating a smooth transition in her new role. “The first 100 days in office mark a crucial milestone.
It provides us with the opportunity to review our accomplishments, assess our progress thus far, and outline our objectives moving forward,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning.
Walson-Jack also recognized President Tinubu’s pivotal role in her appointment, expressing her appreciation for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.
Underlining the ongoing challenges facing the civil service, she mentioned that her office is actively collaborating with the Federal Civil Service Commission to combat the issue of job racketeering practice that undermines the integrity of the recruitment process within the civil service.
“I fully understand that the Federal Civil Service Commission is tasked with overseeing recruitment; however, we are fully supporting their work in this area. Our commitment to eradicating job racketeering remains strong,” Walson-Jack affirmed.
She further pledged that the civil service will take decisive action against individuals who have secured employment through fraudulent methods, stating, “Where evidence of unethical recruitment practices is found, we will collaborate with the commission to ensure that appropriate sanctions are imposed.
However the investigation continues, and the commitment of the Federal Government and the Head of the Civil Service to maintaining the integrity and fidelity of the civil service is made clear.
As Walson-Jack leads this critical initiative, the accountability measures implemented will serve to preserve the fundamental principles upon which the civil service was built.
