Dr Ukaire Urges Civil Servants to Embrace Innovation, Digital Transformation, Excellence in Service Delivery
Sarah Kitka
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Binyerem C. Ukaire, has called on officers and staff of the Ministry to embrace innovation, continuous learning, digital transformation, teamwork and excellence in service delivery as critical tools for building a productive, citizen-centred and world-class public service.
Dr. Ukaire made the call on Monday in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Civil Service Week Celebration, which commenced at the Ministry’s headquarters and will run from June 22 to June 28, 2026.
Welcoming participants to the event, the Permanent Secretary described the Civil Service Week as a significant annual celebration dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of civil servants to national development.
She commended staff for their commitment and sacrifices in ensuring effective public administration and national progress, noting that “Today is your day. We are here to celebrate every one of you who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure continuity, stability and progress in public administration.”
Speaking on the theme of the 2026 celebration, “Transforming Public Institutions Through Advancing Innovation, Participation and Inclusion,” Dr. Ukaire said the theme aligns with ongoing Federal Government reforms aimed at strengthening public institutions through technology-driven administration, capacity building, innovation and improved service delivery.
According to her, the Ministry must continue to play its strategic role as the engine room of government communication and national orientation while adapting to the evolving demands of modern governance.
She urged staff to uphold the core values of integrity, professionalism, accountability, patriotism and excellence, stating: “Let us embrace innovation, continuous learning, teamwork and excellence in service delivery as we strive to deliver on the mandate entrusted to us by the Nigerian people.”
Dr. Ukaire further stressed the need for continuous learning and professional development, noting that adaptation and innovation are essential requirements for effective public service in the digital age.
She called on staff to recommit themselves to the vision of a responsive and efficient civil service aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, adding: “Change has come, but you are the ones who will make that change happen. Let us all play our part and put our hands on deck to actualise the vision of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.”
The opening ceremony featured sensitisation presentations on the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), with directors and senior officers highlighting key reform pillars.
The Director, Public Communications, Barr. Henshaw Ogubike, spoke on Capability Building, emphasising continuous learning and career development as essential for a competent workforce.
Representing the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mrs. Dickson Amaka highlighted the importance of the Performance Management System (PMS) in improving accountability and productivity.
The Deputy Director, Human Resources Management, Mr. Peter Davwet, underscored the role of IPPIS in ensuring transparency and efficiency in payroll administration.
The Director, Planning, Policy and Development, Mr. Ibidapo Okunnu, speaking on Innovation, encouraged staff to adopt creative approaches to improve service delivery.
The Deputy Director, ICT, Mr. Ifeanyi Okereke, highlighted the importance of digitalisation, stressing the use of government digital platforms and emerging technologies for improved efficiency and coordination.
The Director, Public Relations and Protocol, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, spoke on staff welfare initiatives aimed at improving working conditions, career progression and overall wellbeing of civil servants.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to sustaining reforms that will reposition the Federal Civil Service for greater efficiency, innovation and effective service delivery to Nigerians.
