HCSF Seeks Collaboration with AANI To Boost Civil Servant Capacity

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has called for a strategic partnership with the Alumni Association of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (AANI) to enhance civil servant capacity building.

During a visit to her office in Abuja by AANI members led by President Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, Walson-Jack highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating that it aligns perfectly with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP25) – particularly Pillar 1, which focuses on staff capabilities and talent management.

“AANI will sit perfectly well with our pillar one initiative dwelling on capabilities building and talent management,” she said, adding that, “we are expanding existing training programs, reviewing our curricula, adopting e-learning and introducing other initiatives to build the capacity of staff”.

Walson-Jack emphasized the need to address skill gaps within the civil service, and stressed that this partnership will contribute significantly to improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the workforce.

She also commended the vast research conducted by participants during their programs at the National Institute, urging that such research documents be collated and shared with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to inform policy formulation and implementation.

Ambassador Okafor, President of AANI, emphasized the Institute’s role as the country’s highest policy think-tank, producing numerous technocrats and statesmen who have contributed immensely to national development.

He highlighted the wealth of knowledge and expertise within the AANI membership, stating that the Government would benefit immensely from utilizing their services.

“The National Institute contributes immensely to national development as Nigeria’s apex policy think-tank, through numerous evidence-based policy recommendations as well as through constant, constructive engagement with policymakers at all levels,” he stated.

The visit by AANI marks the beginning of what is anticipated to be a fruitful collaboration between the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) and the alumni association.

This partnership promises to be a vital step in equipping the Federal Civil Service with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively serve the nation.

In a separate development, the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) led by President-General Mr. Michael Magaji also paid a courtesy visit to the HCSF, offering their support to her in revitalizing the Federal Civil Service.

The visit from both AANI and USOSA underscores the growing commitment to enhancing the Federal Civil Service, with organizations and individuals coming together to support the HCSF in her efforts to bring about positive change.