President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive mandating that civil servants who have relocated abroad and continue to draw salaries from the Nigerian government must refund the money. This action is part of a broader crackdown on fraudulent practices within the civil service.
At an event commemorating the 2024 Civil Service Week, President Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, emphasized the need for accountability. The President specifically called for sanctions against both the offending employees and their supervisors who failed to curb such fraudulent activities.
“During my recent visit to South Africa, I was appalled by reports of civil servants who have moved abroad but continue to receive salaries without formally resigning. This is unacceptable,” Tinubu said. “Those involved must refund the money they have wrongfully collected. Additionally, supervisors and department heads who facilitated this fraud must face appropriate consequences.”
Tinubu highlighted his administration’s commitment to improving the civil service sector, acknowledging its challenges and pledging continued support for reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and service delivery.
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“Our administration is fully aware of the hurdles facing the civil service. We are dedicated to ensuring the welfare and professional development of all civil servants to foster national growth. Over the past year, we have supported the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in implementing policies and reforms designed to boost performance and service delivery,” Tinubu added.
The award night, organized by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, also served to honor outstanding civil servants. Key awards included a brand new 2023 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV, a 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalow, and a serviced plot of land. Additionally, 40 workers received cash prizes of N500,000 each.
Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, announced further incentives, including the donation of six Toyota Camry cars by the Nigeria Customs Service to be awarded to the next set of top-performing officers.
Dr. Mercy Ilori from the Ministry of Transportation, who won the star prize, expressed gratitude on behalf of all awardees, thanking the government and Dr. Yemi-Esan for their support and recognition.
This directive and the subsequent measures reflect the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on fraud and its commitment to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the Nigerian civil service.
