NIGERIA: FG Launches Data-Driven Reform to Clean Up Civil Service Records

By Hamzat Ameenat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive data-driven reform aimed at sanitising personnel records and addressing skills gaps across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the country.

The initiative, tagged the Personnel Audit and Skills Gap Analysis (PASGA) Project, was officially unveiled in Abuja by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

Speaking at the launch, Walson-Jack said the project marks a major step toward restoring data integrity, enhancing workforce planning, and repositioning the public service for greater efficiency and accountability.

She stated: “PASGA is a key element of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, designed to reposition the civil service as an efficient, accountable, and digitally driven institution in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The Head of Service explained that the exercise seeks to correct years of fragmented and outdated personnel information that have hindered proper deployment and career progression in the service.

According to her, the project will produce accurate personnel records, identify existing skills gaps, and enable the government to implement targeted training and redeployment strategies that align with national development goals.

Walson-Jack described the initiative as a “milestone reform” in the ongoing transformation of the civil service, adding that it reflects the government’s commitment to innovation, transparency, and evidence-based human resource management.

She commended the Permanent Secretary, Common Services Office, and the Project Implementation Committee for their coordination, urging all stakeholders, including permanent secretaries, directors, union leaders, and staff across MDAs, to give their full cooperation.

She further stated: “This is not just an audit but a reform tool. It will determine how placements, promotions, and performance are managed going forward. Our goal is to build a civil service that is data-driven, merit-based, and future-ready.”

The project’s implementing partner, Knewrow Consulting, represented by its Senior Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ayo Muritala, described the exercise code-named Project Phoenix as the rebirth of Nigeria’s civil service.

Muritala explained that the firm views the assignment as a “national service” rather than a mere contract, promising professionalism and transparency throughout the exercise.

“Project Phoenix represents the renewal of the civil service. It will set a new benchmark for how workforce data and planning are managed in Nigeria,” he said.

He assured that all civil servants would be reached wherever they are stationed, noting that no one would be required to travel to Abuja for verification. Muritala said verification teams have been adequately trained and equipped to ensure the process is seamless, credible, and transformative.

He added that the outcome of the project would enhance accountability, strengthen data integrity, and improve workforce efficiency across the public service.

Muritala also commended the Head of Service for her leadership, describing the initiative as a “partnership with purpose” and a “legacy reform” that will redefine public administration in Nigeria.

The PASGA Project forms part of the broader effort under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP 2021–2025) to digitise government operations, promote meritocracy, and build a result-oriented public workforce aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.