The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, held a strategic meeting with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, to discuss enhancing cooperation on civil service reforms.
The meeting, which took place on Thursday, focused on strengthening productivity and governance in both nations through joint efforts.
Mrs Walson-Jack expressed appreciation for the UK’s long-standing partnership with the Nigerian Civil Service, underscoring the value of international collaboration in fortifying governance structures and improving service delivery.
She noted that the High Commissioner’s visit represented a pivotal moment in deepening ties between Nigeria, the UK, and other global partners.
Referencing her recent discussions with the UK Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service, Mrs Walson-Jack emphasized the importance of furthering their previous conversations.
A particular focus was placed on Capability Building and Talent Management, the first pillar of Nigeria’s Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP-25).
This area, she highlighted, is a shared priority for both countries, offering fertile ground for cooperation.
Mrs Walson-Jack proposed expanding the scope of Capability Building and Talent Management through exchange programmes and study tours between Nigeria and the UK.
She also expressed interest in incorporating elements of the UK’s Service Live Programme into Nigeria’s 2025 Civil Service Week, a move she believes would enhance professional development, networking, and capacity building across Nigeria’s public service sectors.
During the meeting, Mrs. Walson-Jack outlined several initiatives she has introduced since assuming office, including the reintroduction of the Federal Civil Service Anthem and the creation of “War Rooms” to fast-track the implementation of FCSSIP-25.
These innovations, she noted, are designed to inspire creativity and innovation within the civil service, driving the reform agenda forward.
In his response, Dr Montgomery congratulated Mrs Walson-Jack on her appointment and reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s civil service reforms.
He praised the “War Rooms” initiative and emphasized the importance of aligning UK assistance with Nigeria’s priorities under the FCSSIP-25 framework.
Dr. Montgomery identified areas such as digital professionalization and risk management as key focal points for future collaboration.
He also expressed mutual interest in learning from Nigeria’s reform strategies, noting that both countries face similar challenges in enhancing civil service productivity.
“Collaboration will be key to achieving our shared objectives,” he stated.
The British High Commissioner assured Nigeria of the UK’s continued support in advancing civil service reforms, highlighting the value of building a robust partnership to accelerate progress and improve governance in both nations.
