The Federal Ministry of Interior has restated that innovation is central to driving positive change, strengthening reforms, and improving service delivery across the Nigerian public service.
This position was made known by the Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Mrs. Gloria-Vera C. Azoro, during a training programme on innovation organised by the Ministry for its agencies in Abuja.
Mrs. Azoro explained that innovation involves the practical improvement of existing processes or the introduction of new ideas that enhance efficiency, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness in government operations. She said the training was designed to equip officers with the mindset and skills required to rethink how work is done and adopt more effective approaches.
According to her, innovation demands critical thinking, creativity, and openness to new methods of problem-solving. She expressed satisfaction with the level of participation from all six agencies under the Ministry and commended the Permanent Secretary for approving the programme.
To sustain the reform drive, Mrs. Azoro urged agencies that are yet to establish Innovation Units to do so without delay. She also recommended the creation of Innovation Committees with representation from all departments to ensure broad-based participation and institutional ownership of reform initiatives.
She further advised participants to ensure continuous engagement with management in implementing reforms and to introduce regular innovation-focused activities, including quarterly challenges, aimed at generating practical solutions to operational issues within the system.
Mrs. Azoro added that the training featured presentations from experienced reformers and innovation experts, encouraging participants to actively engage and apply the knowledge gained in their respective agencies. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a more responsive and efficient public service through sustained innovation and reform initiatives.
Earlier in the programme, Dr. John Magbadelo, former Director of Civil Service Transformation at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), delivered a paper titled “Prospects and Challenges of Innovation in Nigeria’s Public Service.” He noted that the Federal Public Service has demonstrated adaptability over the years, transitioning from analogue systems to digitalised processes. He also highlighted that the ongoing digital transformation, which began in 2016, has expanded across all levels of Nigeria’s public service.
In another presentation, Mr. Henry Nwaedo of the Service Innovation Department, OHCSF, spoke on “Driving Public Sector Transformation: The Strategic Role of Innovation Divisions in Ministries and MDAs.” He emphasised that improved governance and service delivery can be achieved through a strong culture of innovation, effective implementation of ideas, and sustained policy reforms.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to deepening reform initiatives and embedding innovation across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance efficiency, productivity, and service delivery in the public sector.
