The Federal Government is maintaining its investigation into civil servants who have relocated abroad but continue to draw salaries from the system, according to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.
Speaking during a briefing in Abuja to mark her first 100 days in office, Walson-Jack assured Nigerians that the probe had not been abandoned. She emphasized that the government remains committed to identifying and addressing cases of civil servants who left the country for greener pastures but are still receiving payments unlawfully.
“This issue came to light, and verifications were initiated. Since then, some individuals have returned voluntarily, while others have honorably retired,” Walson-Jack explained. “We are sustaining the momentum, scrutinizing the IPPIS payroll system to identify those who are not in the country but still drawing salaries. Progress has been made, and this will remain a continuous process to ensure that such practices are completely eradicated.”
The investigation aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive in June 2024, mandating sanctions against civil servants found guilty of this malpractice. The President also ordered the refund of all salaries paid to such individuals and demanded disciplinary action against supervisors and department heads who enabled the fraud.
The former HCSF, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, had earlier disclosed that some civil servants resigned voluntarily after physical verifications began. “Those outside the country without official permission will face dismissal once the verification process is complete,” she said at the time.
Walson-Jack reaffirmed that the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) is collaborating with her office to address job racketeering and other systemic issues. She acknowledged the support of her staff and “Super Permanent Secretaries,” describing her first 100 days as a period of reflection, achievement, and strategic planning.
She said, “The first 100 days in office is a significant milestone. It offers an opportunity to reflect on the achievements recorded, perform a thorough audit of progress, and identify the goals ahead.”
In her remarks, she highlighted ongoing initiatives to improve service delivery. These include a comprehensive onboarding package for new employees, featuring induction programs, welcome kits, and guided tours to create a positive first impression and foster a sense of belonging for every new civil servant.
Walson-Jack also extended her gratitude to President Tinubu for appointing her to her current role, pledging to uphold the trust reposed in her office. “We are committed to ensuring a more efficient civil service system that aligns with the administration’s goals of transparency and accountability,” she concluded.
