The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, confirmed on Monday that the Federal Government’s investigation into civil servants who relocated abroad but continue to receive salaries is ongoing.
Addressing concerns that the probe may have lost momentum, Walson-Jack asserted that the government remains committed to ensuring accountability in the civil service. She noted that since the investigation commenced under President Bola Tinubu’s directive, some implicated workers have either resigned or returned to the country to resume work.
Speaking at an event in Abuja to mark her 100 days in office, Walson-Jack stated, “Some of them quickly came back while some honorably retired. We are scrutinizing the IPPIS payroll system to identify those who are still receiving salaries while residing abroad. This process will remain continuous to prevent abuse of the system.”
The investigation began after President Tinubu, in June 2024, ordered that civil servants found receiving salaries after relocating abroad must refund the payments. The directive also called for disciplinary action against their supervisors and department heads for enabling such practices.
Walson-Jack thanked her team and “Super Permanent Secretaries” for their support in achieving a smooth transition and operational success during her first 100 days in office. She also acknowledged President Tinubu for entrusting her with the role and pledged continued efforts to enhance civil service efficiency.
Additionally, Walson-Jack expressed the commitment of her office to work with the Federal Civil Service Commission to tackle job racketeering in the civil service. She emphasized that any individual found guilty of securing a job through fraudulent means would face appropriate sanctions.
“The Federal Civil Service Commission oversees recruitment, but we collaborate to ensure integrity in the process. If anyone is discovered to have obtained their position fraudulently, we will work with the commission to enforce disciplinary measures,” she affirmed.
The probe and associated reforms are part of broader efforts to instill transparency and accountability within the Nigerian civil service.
