Modern Civil Service Has No Room for Computer Illiteracy – Head of Service

The new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, has asserted that computer literacy is essential for anyone seeking to remain relevant in Nigeria’s civil service.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday while overseeing the Confirmatory Promotional Examination for public servants, which was held across 45 centers nationwide, Ms. Walson-Jack emphasized the importance of digital proficiency in the modern civil service.

“To be relevant in today’s civil service, especially under the ongoing digitization program, every public servant must be computer literate,” she stated.

Ms. Walson-Jack highlighted the federal government’s ongoing efforts to transform the civil service to meet global standards. She stressed that civil servants who are not yet proficient in computer skills must urgently acquire them to stay competitive.

Represented by Raymond Omachi, the Permanent Secretary of the Common Services Office in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Ms. Walson-Jack noted that 12,444 candidates nationwide participated in the examination. The exam, conducted in partnership with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), included newly appointed officers across the public service, including those in paramilitary services.

The Head of Service underscored the importance of transparency in the examination process. “From what we have observed, the process has been seamless; I have received reports that everything is proceeding smoothly,” she remarked, extending her gratitude to JAMB for facilitating the exercise.

Funmilola B-Usman, the Acting Director of Information Technology Services at JAMB, also lauded the initiative, describing it as a significant step forward. She expressed satisfaction with the candidates’ conduct during the exams, noting, “It is impressive and reassuring that the candidates are well-prepared and fully engaged with the system.”