The Kogi State Government has unveiled plans to revamp its civil service by implementing strategic reforms and introducing performance-based incentives to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
Speaking at a leadership development session held at the State Secretariat in Lokoja, the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Elijah Adeiza Evinemi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a modern, professional, and highly motivated workforce. He described the civil service as the engine room of governance, stressing the need for continuous improvements to align with international best practices.
Dr. Evinemi commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his strong backing in strengthening the civil service, emphasizing that his administration is focused on capacity building, efficiency, and accountability. He noted that the presence of Permanent Secretaries and Directors at the session reflected the government’s seriousness in driving reform.
As part of these reforms, the Government Performance Index will be expanded to include a reward system for outstanding civil servants, ensuring that dedication and excellence are recognized and encouraged.
He further disclosed that the civil service restructuring proposal had been submitted to the governor, who had already given verbal approval for its implementation.
A key highlight of the session was a presentation by Dr. Adams Adeiza, an Associate Professor at Sunway University, Malaysia, who introduced the Kogi Service Pledge—a framework designed to enhance service delivery and governance in the state.
The Kogi Service Pledge is built on six core principles which included, Knowledge-driven leadership, Openness and accountability, Goal-oriented innovation, Inter-agency synergy, Character and competence and Inclusion and diversity
Dr. Adeiza emphasized the importance of adopting global best practices, citing Singapore and Dubai as models of successful civil service transformation.
He advised Kogi policymakers to focus on,
Implementing the No Wrong Door Initiative, ensuring citizens can access government services seamlessly and Establishing an enterprise development scheme within the civil service to promote innovation and self-motivation.
Dr. Evinemi reaffirmed that the restructuring efforts are designed to position Kogi State’s civil service among the best in Nigeria, making it more competitive, productive, and responsive to the needs of the people.
With Governor Ododo’s commitment, these reforms are set to transform Kogi’s civil service into a model of efficiency, accountability, and innovation, ensuring sustainable development and improved service delivery across the state.
