Obasanjo Highlights Need To Recognize Technocrats In Government Service

Obasanjo Highlights Need To Recognize Technocrats In Government Service

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has underscored the importance of acknowledging technocrats in the civil service, highlighting their essential role in driving effective governance and reform. Speaking at the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation’s national workshop in Abuja on Tuesday, Obasanjo stated, “Technocrats hold significant power and must be recognized……… CONTINUE READING 

Obasanjo referred to Permanent Secretaries and other senior civil servants as key technocrats and emphasized the need for collaboration between political leaders and technocrats. He argued that genuine reform can only be achieved through mutual respect and understanding between these groups.

“The greatest challenge in reform is the lack of continuity,” he said. “Continuity in personnel is vital for reform, which is an ongoing journey, not a final destination.” He also commended the transition between outgoing and incoming heads of service, noting, “I am pleased to see a female successor to another female leader. This is progress.”

Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, also spoke at the event, addressing why many reforms in Nigeria falter. She acknowledged the difficulties inherent in reforming systems and stressed the need for continuous improvement. “Reforming a system is challenging and there are no flawless solutions. Reform is a continuous process,” she said.

Dr. Yemi-Esan identified obstacles to successful reform, including inadequate strategies, poor funding, and resistance to change. She outlined the Office of the Head of Service’s efforts to tackle these issues, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, governance structures, and capacity building.

In his opening address, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, chairman of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, emphasized that strengthening the public service benefits everyone. He pointed out that Nigeria’s low Human Development Index ranking reflects long-term governmental performance and stressed the connection between a robust public sector and national strength.

Aig-Imoukhuede also outlined the foundation’s initiatives to enhance public service, including leadership development, technical support, and digital transformation efforts. He called for collective action to reform the public service, stating, “This discussion is just the beginning. The Nigerian Public Sector Reform Project starts here.”