Head of Service Urges Reforms at 2026 Retreat

During the 2026 annual retreat for permanent secretaries, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, the Head of Service of the Federation, emphasized the importance of institutionalizing reforms within the civil service to create a sustainable legacy. She charged the permanent secretaries to intensify efforts in embedding ongoing reforms into the fabric of the civil service, ensuring the establishment of a durable system.

Walson-Jack highlighted significant strides in advancing key priority areas such as digital transformation and performance management. She acknowledged the critical role of strong leadership and effective change management in achieving these reforms.

The retreat featured discussions on the Federal Civil Service Strategy Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025 and the development of its successor plan. Notable speakers included Dr.

Ibukun Awosika, who encouraged a reassessment of leadership paradigms, and Ms. Elsi Attafuah from UNDP, who reaffirmed the agency's commitment to supporting digital transformation initiatives.

The retreat also marked the launch of the 2026 International Civil Service Conference website.