Forum backs Nigeria’s public sector reform

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has said that effective public sector reforms in Nigeria would be advantageous to national development and the discharge of civil and public service values in the country.

The workshop, theme, ‘Rethinking Reforms: Why Many Reforms Fail in Nigeria and What We Can Do About It’, featured perceptions of state and non-state research respondents on the impact of nepotism, corruption, and accountability deficits on public service delivery.

The lead researcher, Prof. Balogun, presented groundbreaking findings at the workshop, with his research introducing a new framework for understanding the challenges hindering Nigeria’s public sector reforms: the ‘Multiple Fiefdoms Theory’.

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The research emphasizes the urgent need to strengthen the ‘Soft Environment’ by fostering a merit-based public service, promoting accountability, and cultivating a shared national vision.

The workshop featured panel of experts, including Dr. ‘Dere Awosika, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Dr. Joe Abah, Mr. Uyi Akpata, and Mr. ‘Laoye Jaiyeola, who shared invaluable insights on the complexities of public sector reform and what can be done to ensure its success.

The workshop also witnessed contributions by former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Justice Amina Augie, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, Bishop Matthew Kukah and Mr. Bismarck Rewane; while the immediate past Head of Service, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, delivered a keynote.

Also present was her successor, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack, signaling succession planning and policy continuity.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who noted the significance of continuity in the reform process, said, “The greatest bane of reforms is discontinuity of the key actors. Any break in continuity means virtually the end of reform.”

Also, Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, Executive Vice Chair of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, said, “This workshop marks a pivotal moment as we begin Nigeria’s public sector reform journey. By working together, we can create a public sector that truly serves the needs and the aspirations of the Nigerian citizens, because those are who we truly serve.”