Nigeria to host 2025 international civil service conference, Says HCSF

By Friday Obande

Nigeria is set to host the 2025 International Civil Service Conference week. Head of the Civil Service to the Federation, (HCSF) Mrs Walson-Jack announced this at the May edition of the monthly walking/jogging and aerobics exercises organised by the Federation of the Public Service Games (FEPSGA) on Saturday in Abuja.

This event, according to her, will attract key stakeholders and experts in public administration from across the globe.

She said, “We must all participate actively. As our Civil Service anthem says, we are marching to greatness.

“The Week would feature various activities, including a special walking/jogging exercise on June 28 and an Awards Night for recognition and reward.

“We must all participate actively. As our Civil Service anthem says, we are marching to greatness.”

While serving as the chief guest of Jogger and Captain as well, she commended the event as a testament to the commitment of public servants to healthy living and workplace productivity.

Mrs Walson-Jack also applauded FEPSGA President, Amaebi Aluko and his team for promoting physical wellness and unity across the service through regular fitness initiatives.

The head of service also expressed gratitude to the government and people of Rivers for successfully hosting the 2024 edition of the games, whixh she said their hospitality was instrumental to its success.

She further stated that her participation in the monthly exercise dated back to her time as a Director and later as a permanent secretary.

“Physical wellness is not just a personal goal; it is a public service imperative. A healthy civil servant is a productive one. As leaders, we must not only preach wellness but lead by example,” she said.

She encouraged all civil servants, regardless of rank or fitness level, to make exercise a part of their lifestyle, describing it as a personal responsibility and a contribution to a vibrant and effective public service.

Ms Aluko, on her part, commended the HCSF for her unwavering support for sports and wellness in the public sector, as she described Mrs Walson-Jack’s presence as a strong endorsement of the role of sports in enhancing the productivity and efficiency across ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

“We give God the glory. The Federation of Public Service Games is a product of the vision and commitment of the current Head of Civil Service, even from her days as a Permanent Secretary,” he said.

Also, Patience Oyekunle, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office to the HCSF, called on Public servants to prioritise their physical and mental well-being in order to enhance productivity and service delivery.

Ms Oyekunle described the exercise as a bold step towards fostering a healthier, more energised and resilient workforce.

“It is with immense joy and a deep sense of duty that I welcome you all to this fitness initiative.

“Today marks not just a beginning, but a commitment to well-being and excellence in public service,” she added.