Civil Service Directors’ Training: Strengthening capacity for Effective Policy Design
The Civil Service plays a vital role in turning government policies into real benefits for citizens. To help maximise this impact, we teamed up with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) and the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS) to deliver the second edition of the Civil Service Directors’ Training Programme. This programme equips Civil Service Directors with the skills they need to design policies that create measurable, citizen-focused results. Discover how this training is shaping better policies for a stronger Nigeria.
Over five intensive days, 150 Civil Service Directors participated in practical training sessions led by the expert faculty from Pan-Atlantic University. The programme focused on enhancing their capacity to design policies that are evidence-based, practical, and impactful, while equipping them with the critical skills needed to implement reforms effectively. Building on the success of the 2024 edition, which emphasised project management, communication, and leadership, this year’s programme focused on policy writing and review, blending theory with real-world case studies to deliver practical outcomes.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chioma Njoku, our Director of Programmes, highlighted the central role directors play as the architects of Nigeria’s policy process. She said, “When directors have the tools to develop clear, evidence-based, and people-focused policies, the results are seen in better governance, more efficient service delivery, and tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. This programme is an investment in Nigeria’s future.”
With strong backing from the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), this year’s training builds on the success of the previous edition and reflects a collaborative effort between public and private sectors to strengthen Nigeria’s Civil Service. Mrs Eluemuno Olumagin, Vice Chairperson of OPTS’ HR Subcommittee, emphasised the importance of a capable Civil Service for national prosperity: “An efficient Civil Service is the foundation for a stable and prosperous Nigeria. Our partnership in this training is an investment in skilled public leaders whose strategic decisions will unlock growth and improve lives across the country.”
Civil Service Directors are pivotal in transforming government priorities into policies that benefit citizens directly. The programme strategically addresses competency gaps in policy formulation and review, areas that have previously limited public service delivery. By strengthening these core skills, the training supports Nigeria’s ongoing public service transformation, fostering an accountable, responsive, and results-driven civil service aligned with both national development goals and global best practices.