Abuja: The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has urged senior officers of the four paramilitary agencies under his ministry to prioritize efficiency, innovation, and continuous learning as key factors for career advancement in public service. Tunji-Ojo delivered this message at the inauguration of a capacity-building program focused on the Performance Management System for personnel of the four agencies in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the agencies involved in this initiative include the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), and Federal Fire Service (FFS). The minister highlighted that the training is intended to enhance their ability to address contemporary security and administrative challenges.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the evolving nature of national issues necessitates fresh approaches and solutions, warning that future promotions will be based on performance and efficiency rather than tenure. He illustrated this point by comparing biblical figures, noting, “Longevity is not the criteria anymore; performance and efficiency are.”
He encouraged officers to adopt a strong work ethic, similar to his own experience in private practice, which prepared him for public service. Dr. Tunji-Ojo also stressed the importance of capacity-building investments for both governmental and personal growth, suggesting that some participants may continue contributing in various capacities after retirement.
The minister advocated for the adoption of technology and innovation, urging officers to present new ideas and solutions to management, rather than relying on outdated methods. He announced plans to reinstate a reward system for innovative and diligent officers and encouraged open dialogue between junior staff and leadership.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the intellectual capabilities of Nigeria’s paramilitary personnel and affirmed the ministry’s commitment to ongoing training investments. He highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer to subordinates, noting that institutions endure beyond individual tenures.
In her remarks, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering a performance-driven, technologically-advanced, and accountable public service. She urged the agencies to fully adopt the Performance Management System (PMS) and transition to paperless operations.
Ajani emphasized the necessity for public institutions to deliver efficiency, responsiveness, and transparency, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s public sector reform agenda. She explained that the PMS offers a structured means to align individual duties with agency and government objectives, ensuring ongoing staff development.
The Permanent Secretary called on participants to engage with the training proactively and to promote reforms upon returning to their posts. She stressed that PMS must be ingrained as a cultural norm, requiring consistency and collaboration across all levels.
Ajani praised the Minister of Interior for initiating and funding the program, recalling his directive during a sectoral retreat on PMS in Jos.