By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Ministry has intensified efforts to strengthen public sector reforms with a renewed focus on innovation as a driver of efficiency, transparency, and improved service delivery across its agencies.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali, the Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Mrs. Gloria-Vera C. Azoro, made this known during a training programme on innovation organised for agencies under the Ministry.
Mrs. Azoro described innovation as a practical tool for improving government operations, noting that it involves refining existing processes or introducing new approaches that enhance efficiency, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness in service delivery.
She explained that the training was designed to equip public officers with the mindset and skills required to rethink conventional work processes, stressing that innovation demands critical thinking and openness to new ideas.
The Director commended the participation of all six agencies under the Ministry and expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for approving the initiative, which she said aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening institutional performance.
To institutionalise innovation, she urged agencies yet to establish Innovation Units to do so, alongside setting up Innovation Committees with broad departmental representation to promote inclusivity and sustainability.
Mrs. Azoro also encouraged participants to carry their management along in reform initiatives and to introduce structured innovation-driven activities, including periodic challenges, to generate practical solutions to organisational issues.
She noted that the training would feature sessions by experienced reformers and innovators, urging participants to actively engage and apply the knowledge gained within their respective organisations.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to building a responsive and efficient public service through sustained innovation and reform-driven initiatives.
In separate presentations, Dr. John Magbadelo, a former Director of Civil Service Transformation at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, highlighted the progress made in transitioning from analogue to digital processes within Nigeria’s public service, noting that the digital transformation drive initiated in 2016 has expanded across all levels of governance.
Similarly, Mr. Henry Nwaedo of the Service Innovation Department at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation emphasised the strategic role of innovation divisions in ministries and agencies, noting that improved governance outcomes depend on fostering a culture of innovation, effective implementation of ideas, and sustained policy reforms.
