The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has called on civil servants to demonstrate greater professionalism, accountability, and productivity in response to ongoing reforms and welfare improvements in the public service.
In her 2026 Workers’ Day message issued on Friday, May 1, 2026, Walson-Jack commended officers across the Federal Civil Service for their dedication, resilience, and contributions to national development, noting that their roles remain central to governance and service delivery.
She said civil servants sustain government operations daily through policy formulation, administration, healthcare, education, infrastructure support, and regulatory functions, ensuring that essential services reach Nigerians.
The Head of Service acknowledged the demanding nature of public service, including long hours and personal sacrifices, describing the commitment of workers as “deeply valued and appreciated.”
Walson-Jack also noted ongoing reforms within the service, including increased adoption of digitalisation, innovation, performance management, and continuous learning, which she said are transforming the system into a more efficient and citizen-centred institution.
She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising the welfare of civil servants under the Renewed Hope Agenda. According to her, key initiatives include the approval of the Exit Benefit Scheme for retirees under the contributory pension scheme and the implementation of the Employee Compensation Scheme for work-related risks.
The Head of Service further noted that the Federal Government had approved an upward review of allowances, including duty tour allowances, estacode, and book allowance, alongside a ₦10 billion housing loan scheme aimed at improving workers’ welfare.
“These interventions have strengthened morale and enhanced productivity across the Civil Service,” she said.
However, she urged workers to reciprocate government efforts with improved performance and integrity, stressing that this was not a time for complacency but for measurable results.
Walson-Jack added that Nigeria’s progress depends on a competent, ethical, and effective civil service, calling on officers to remain committed to excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
She equally appreciated civil servants nationwide for their service and sacrifices, describing them as essential to national growth.