FCT, Abuja — President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian public servants to maintain accountability to citizens and uphold public trust, stressing that public institutions are not personal enterprises. He emphasized that public servants are employees of the Nigerian people and should be guided by this principle in their duties.
President Tinubu delivered his message during the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where merit is rewarded, and public servants feel valued and motivated.
“This is not just about the awards ceremony, but about embedding a culture of recognition and reward in the ethos of our public service,” Tinubu stated. He acknowledged that despite measures to prevent irregularities, some loopholes are still exploited by those entrusted with public responsibilities.
“More than ever, our public service must live up to its expectation as a public trust where every official must account to the people. Ours is to create an ecosystem where they stand out and stand apart from those who sabotage us,” he added.
Partnership and Recognition
Highlighting the significance of NEAPS, a private sector initiative in partnership with the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Tinubu expressed full support for the initiative. He described it as strategic in inspiring the nation’s workforce, setting benchmarks, and creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout society.
“Reward and recognition are the very markers of every thriving institution, and indeed, nation. Our labour force remains the ultimate reflection of our principles, practised by men and women committed to building a better future for all citizens,” the President said.
He praised Nigerian public servants, noting that their contributions must be remembered to motivate them and inspire others. “We owe these silent architects of our national progress more than just a debt of gratitude,” he said.
Crucial Role of NEAPS
Beyond recognizing the unsung heroes who keep the wheels of government and society turning, Tinubu emphasized that NEAPS plays a crucial role in introducing role models to a nation in search of mentors. “The 44 persons we are here to honour set in motion a chain of actions to build a culture of hard work and commitment to noble principles in our public service,” he noted.
The SGF, George Akume, in his welcome address, explained that NEAPS recognizes and rewards innovation, purposeful leadership, and hard work by exceptional individuals and organizations in the public service and private sector. He assured that the initiative would be maintained to motivate and encourage excellence in the country’s public service.
Among the award recipients were General Abdulsalami Abubakar, President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and several governors and ministers recognized for their contributions in various sectors.
