President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive to federal government employees discovered to have relocated abroad while still drawing salaries, instructing them to refund the received funds. He also emphasized consequences for department heads complicit in such actions.
The President delivered these orders during the annual “Awards and Gala Night” marking this year’s Civil Service Week in Abuja, responding to revelations shared by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, during a media parley.
“During my recent visit to South Africa, I was informed about employees relocating abroad yet continuing to receive salaries without resigning formally,” stated President Tinubu. “While measures are being taken, those responsible must be held accountable and restitution made.”
“Culprits must refund fraudulently obtained funds,” he continued. “Supervisors and department heads aiding and abetting such fraud will face appropriate sanctions.”
President Tinubu stressed that the Nigerian Civil Service cannot tolerate misconduct where employees “do anything” and break laws without repercussions. “The civil service is crucial for delivering public goods,” he affirmed, describing it as the foundation of government operations.
He lauded the ongoing Leadership Enhancement and Development Programme (LEAD-P), designed to enhance skills and innovation within the civil service, urging swift implementation of reforms across ministries to uphold meritocracy and efficiency.
President Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to cultivating and empowering human capital within the civil service to achieve national potential, amidst the challenges faced.
The event concluded the 2024 Annual Civil Service Week, highlighting initiatives aimed at fostering excellence and professionalism among civil servants nationwide.
