The Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa, on Thursday said the enforcement of a merit-based system, professionalisation, digital reform and competitive remuneration are critical to repositioning the commission for improved civil service delivery.
Olaopa stated this in Abuja during the 2026 International Civil Service Conference organised by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF).
According to him, improved performance in the civil service depends on merit-driven processes and clearly defined guidelines that align with the federal character principle, ethical discipline, transparency and accountability.
He noted that these priorities have been incorporated into the commission’s strategic plan aimed at repositioning the FCSC and optimising its operations.
Olaopa also stressed the importance of digital reform, describing it as a major component of the strategic plan designed to transform the FCSC secretariat from a slow, paper-based system vulnerable to loss, damage and human error into a more efficient technology-driven institution.
He said integrity, credibility and public-spiritedness remain critical success factors for the commission, adding that appointments into the commission should place greater emphasis on these qualities.
The FCSC chairman further urged that the selection of commission members should be based on proven professionalism, expertise in their respective fields and records of integrity in previous professional engagements.
“The same should apply in the staffing of the secretariat of the commission, with officers who possess proven competence and personal integrity,” he said.
Olaopa also called for adequate funding for the commission’s core functions, activities and projects, alongside improved incentive structures to enable management and staff effectively discharge their responsibilities as gatekeepers of a profession of national importance.
