In a bid to enhance professionalism, consistency, and efficiency across the Federal Civil Service, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, has inaugurated a committee tasked with developing a comprehensive Style Manual for official communications within the service.
The inauguration ceremony, held as part of activities commemorating Mrs Walson-Jack’s 100 days in office under the theme “Marching to Greatness: Celebrating 100 Days”, underscored the importance of communication in effective governance.
“Communication is the lifeblood of effective administration. This initiative is a pivotal step toward realizing our vision of a modern, transparent, and efficient civil service.
“It reaffirms our commitment to clarity, professionalism, consistency, and accountability in all engagements,” Mrs Walson-Jack stated.
The proposed Style Manual aims to unify and standardize official communication across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
It will provide guidelines on fonts, templates, stationery, and writing styles, ensuring that all documentation reflects a cohesive and professional image of the Federal Civil Service.
Mrs. Walson-Jack expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to produce a high-quality manual that would serve as a foundational tool for present and future civil servants.
“This manual will not only streamline communication processes but also leave a legacy of professionalism for generations to come,” she said.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Service Policies and Strategies Office, Dr Deborah Odoh, lauded the initiative as a significant component of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025.
“This effort aligns with our broader vision of transforming the Federal Civil Service into a professional, world-class institution that drives national development,” Dr. Odoh said.
The committee, chaired by Mr. Adesola Olusade, a retired Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, is composed of seasoned professionals from diverse fields within the civil service.
In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Olusade expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead such an impactful project.
“We understand the magnitude of this task and are committed to delivering a transformative document that will set new standards for the Federal Civil Service,” he assured.
Concluding the ceremony, Dr. Mimi Abu, Director of the Organisation Design and Development Department, delivered a vote of thanks, commending the visionary leadership of Mrs. Walson-Jack.
“This is a call to action that will contribute significantly to our shared dream of an exemplary public service,” Dr. Abu stated.
Recall that Walson-Jack recently held a strategic meeting with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, to discuss enhancing cooperation on civil service reforms.
The meeting focused on strengthening productivity and governance in both nations through joint efforts.
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, especially on Capability Building and Talent Management.
