Nigeria Advocates for Digital Transformation in Civil Service
The Federal Government, alongside the Aig Imokhude Foundation, is intensifying efforts to promote digital transformation within Nigeria’s civil service. Leaders are urging ministries to phase out outdated manual administrative practices in favor of more transparent, technology-driven governance solutions.
Presidential Directive Emphasizes Commitment to Reform
During the launch of the 2026 International Civil Service Conference at Eagle Square in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu conveyed this message through his representative, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. George Akume. The President reinforced the government’s dedication to implementing reforms designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and overall service delivery within public institutions.
Broad Participation Highlights the Conference’s Importance
The conference, organized by the Office of the Federation Civil Service Director, attracted over 5,000 participants, including representatives from 16 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America. The event’s theme, “Reinvention, Resilience and Achievement,” underscores the need for innovative approaches to public administration.
Digitalization as a Central Reform Strategy
President Tinubu urged government agencies to accelerate the adoption of digital business processes, identifying technology-driven governance as a hallmark of his administration’s broader reform agenda. This push aims to create a more efficient and accountable civil service that meets the evolving needs of citizens.
Collaboration Between Public and Private Sectors Essential for Reform
In his keynote address, Aigboje Aig Imokhude, Chairman of the Aig Imokhude Foundation, emphasized the importance of enhanced collaboration between government agencies and the private sector. He argued that substantial reforms in public service hinge on building institutions that can deliver concrete benefits to the populace. Imokhude noted that genuine government effectiveness can be measured by tangible outcomes, such as timely passport issuance, road completion, efficient hospital services, and the seamless registration of businesses.
Call to Action for Business Leaders
Aig Imokhude further encouraged business leaders to bolster governance frameworks and foster closer collaboration with government bodies to elevate public service delivery. He remarked that nations experiencing the most success are those where government and business interests align, highlighting that comprehensive reforms cannot be achieved in isolation.
Aig Imokhude Foundation’s Commitment to Strengthening Governance
As a diamond partner for the conference, the Aig Imokhude Foundation aims to cultivate innovation and collaboration within the civil service. Among its contributions was an alumni-led roundtable titled “Navigating Public Sector Reform,” where alumni of the AIG Public Leadership Program, alongside directors from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and private sector stakeholders, gathered to discuss actionable strategies for sustainable reforms.
Long-term Focus on Public Sector Leadership Development
Ofobwe Aig-Imokufude, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Foundation, highlighted its enduring commitment to fortifying governance institutions across Nigeria. She stated that public servants are vital to national development, and the Foundation’s ongoing partnership aims to equip public sector leaders with essential tools, powerful networks, and the capabilities necessary to achieve meaningful results. The Foundation’s involvement in the conference also builds on its existing collaboration with the federal civil service, through initiatives like the AIG Public Leaders Program and various support programs related to the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan.
