CIVIL service reforms typically involve changes in the recruitment, selection, training, and performance management of public servants. They may also involve measures to streamline bureaucratic processes, reduce corruption, and improve the overall professionalism and competence of the civil service. Civil service reforms are often carried out with the goal of creating a merit-based system that promotes fairness, integrity, and efficiency in the delivery of public services.
Local government reforms, on the other hand, focus on improving the governance and administration of local government. These reforms may involve changes in the structure, powers, and functions of local governments, as well as measures to strengthen their financial management, service delivery, and citizen engagement. Local government reforms are often aimed at enhancing local autonomy, promoting local democracy, and improving the responsiveness and accountability of local governments to the needs and aspirations of their communities.
The Kano state governor-elect, His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf, has outlined some commitments to reforming the civil service and local government systems in the state.
One of the key reforms proposed by Abba Kabir Yusuf is the creation of a civil service institute. This institute would serve as a center for the training and professional development of civil servants, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. by providing continuous training and development opportunities targeted to enhance the capacity and efficiency of the civil service in Kano State.
Another important aspect of Abba’s reform agenda is the re-establishment of the local government service commission. This commission would be responsible for overseeing the recruitment, promotion, and discipline of local government employees, as well as ensuring that local government administrations are functioning in accordance with established guidelines and procedures. This move is aimed at enhancing the autonomy and efficiency of local government administrations in Kano State.
He also recognizes the need for local government autonomy, which has been a long-standing issue in Nigeria. If the law is enacted, it would grant local governments in Kano State greater control over their finances, administration, and decision-making processes. This would enable local governments to better respond to the needs of their communities and promote participatory governance.
Furthermore, Abba is committed to ensuring accountability in the civil service and local governments. He recognizes that transparency and integrity are essential for good governance and public trust. He plans to implement measures to curb corruption, promote ethical conduct, and establish mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the performance of civil servants and local government officials. This would create a culture of accountability and help build public confidence in the government.
In terms of recruitment into the civil service, he aims to establish a merit-based system that is transparent and free from nepotism or favoritism. He intends to ensure that the recruitment process is based on qualifications, competence, and experience rather than political affiliations or personal connections. This would help in attracting and retaining the best talent in the civil service, thereby improving its overall effectiveness and efficiency.
His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf is also committed to ensuring prompt payment of salaries to civil servants and local government employees. He recognizes that delayed payment of salaries can lead to demoralization and inefficiency in the workforce. He plans to establish a system that ensures regular and timely payment of salaries, as well as address any issues related to salary arrears or outstanding payments.
To promote excellence and recognize outstanding performance, Abba intends to establish an annual civil service award. This award would recognize civil servants who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, competence, and innovation in their work. This would encourage a culture of excellence and motivate civil servants to strive for higher standards of performance.
The governor-elect is also committed to addressing the issue of gratuities and other post-retirement plans for civil servants. He recognizes that retired civil servants deserve to be well taken care of after their years of service. He plans to ensure that gratuity payments and other post-retirement plans are paid in a timely manner and in accordance with established policies and regulations. This would provide retired civil servants with the financial security and dignity they deserve after their dedicated service to the state.
Another important aspect of Abba’s reform agenda is putting an end to rampant deductions from salaries and pensions. He acknowledges that unauthorized and excessive deductions from salaries and pensions can cause financial hardships for civil servants and pensioners. He plans to establish strict measures to prevent such deductions and ensure that civil servants and pensioners receive their full entitlements in a timely manner.
Furthermore, he is committed to revisiting the cases of senior civil servants whose demotion and retirements were politically motivated. He recognizes that the politicization of the civil service can undermine its integrity and professionalism. He plans to conduct a thorough review of such cases and take appropriate actions to ensure that civil servants are not victimized or discriminated against based on their political affiliations, but rather promoted and demoted based on merit and performance.
Abba also intends to engage in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) as part of his commitment to transparency and citizen participation in governance. The OGP is a global initiative that promotes openness, accountability, and responsiveness in government. By joining the OGP, Governor Yusuf aims to enhance transparency in government operations, engage citizens in decision-making processes, and promote public accountability.
In conclusion, His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf’s commitment to civil service and local government reforms in Kano State is commendable. His proposed reforms are important steps towards building a more efficient, transparent, and accountable civil service and local government system in Kano State. By engaging in the Open Government Partnership, he also demonstrates his commitment to promoting transparency and citizen participation in governance. If implemented effectively, these reforms have the potential to improve service delivery, enhance public trust, and contribute to the overall development of Kano State.
Muzakkari, Ph.D., writes from Kano.