By Stella Odueme
In a significant move to enhance service delivery and elevate performance standards, the dedicated and committed Permanent Secretaries in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) have signed the Performance Management Contract with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.
This initiative aligns with Pillar Two of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan ‪2021-2025‬ (FCSSIP-25), focusing on Performance Management Systems.
The Performance Management Contract is a formal agreement that outlines the signatories’ performance expectations, goals, and responsibilities, aiming to enhance service delivery and elevate performance standards in the federal civil service.
A statement by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu on Thursday said that the signing ceremony, which held on Wednesday, was a momentous occasion that marked a significant step towards enhancing service delivery and performance standards in the Federal Civil Service.
At the signing ceremony, Mrs Walson-Jack emphasised that the Performance Management System (PMS) is a strategic tool designed to set clear objectives and measurable outcomes for Federal Civil Servants.
“This initiative is a commitment to elevate the standard of public service, ensuring that clear objectives and measurable outcomes guide our actions,” she stated.
She highlighted that the signing of the Performance Management Contract represents a solemn commitment to excellence and good governance, urging Permanent Secretaries to embrace this initiative as a catalyst for real and meaningful change in the Federal Civil Service.
“Your commitment is integral to the success of this initiative and is vital in driving the PMS’s successful implementation across all OHCSF Departments,” she added.
The Head of Service outlined the benefits of the Employee Performance Management System (EPMS), which include fostering enhanced communication between supervisors and subordinates, better human resource decisions, stronger working relationships, and significantly improved productivity and service delivery to citizens.
These benefits promise a more efficient and effective Federal Civil Service, instilling a sense of optimism and hope for the future.
Mr. Raymond Omachi, Permanent Secretary of the Common Services Office in the OHCSF who responded on behalf of his colleagues, acknowledged the signing of the Performance Contract as a pivotal step towards fostering efficiency, accountability, and transparency in the Federal Civil Service.
He urged all stakeholders to support this initiative actively.
“The PMS is more than just a tool; it is a commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and the realisation of the Federal Government’s core objectives. We urge you to participate and actively support this initiative for its success.”
The implementation of the PMS is expected to cascade to other staff within OHCSF. Directors and Departmental PMS champions will play a crucial and valued role in this process, ensuring a performance-driven culture across all levels of the Federal Civil Service.
Their responsibilities will include appraising Staff members’ performance, providing necessary training and support, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, thereby contributing to the successful implementation of the PMS.
Permanent Secretaries who participated in the signing include; Mr Raymond Omachi of the Common Services Office, Dr Deborah Odoh of the Service Policy and Strategies Office, and Mrs Fatima Mahmood of the Career Management Office.
Others were Directors, namely Dr. Comfort Adeosun, who Oversees the Service Welfare Office, and Mrs. Agalasi Ehigie, who Oversees the Special Duties Office.
