Touch bearer to Good Governance in Nigeria: Roles of Permanent Secretaries in supporting Ministers, Commissioners
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
In Nigeria’s government, Permanent Secretaries play a crucial role in supporting Commissioners and administrators in n n inspective ministries. As the most senior rank of civil servant, Permanent Secretaries are responsible for providing technical guidance and advice to Commissioners, who are political appointees.
Key Responsibilities of Permanent Secretaries
Some of the key responsibilities of Permanent Secretaries include:
Providing Technical Guidance: Permanent Secretaries offer expert advice to Commissioners on technical matters related to their ministry.
Implementing Policies: They are responsible for implementing policies and programs initiated by the Commissioner.
Managing Ministry Operations: Permanent Secretaries oversee the day-to-day operations of the ministry, ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
Coordinating with Other Ministries: They coordinate with other ministries and government agencies to ensure that policies and programs are aligned.
The permanent secretaries are accountable for every activity of the ministry’s diseases including financial management and budget administration of the ministry!
While the ministers or commissioners remained approver, the permanent secretaries
Can approve when the ministers or commissioners are out of the office on assignment at a sum not more than 2.6 to 5m!
A permanent secretary is also the chief maintenance officer of the ministry; he or she advises and handles all requisitions and assigns the schedule appropriately!
All civil servants are subject to the permanent secretary
Selection Process for Permanent Secretaries
The selection process for Permanent Secretaries is rigorous and transparent. Candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria, including being a serving Grade Level 17 officer in the mainstream Federal Civil Service. They must also undergo a series of evaluations, including written examinations, oral interviews, and anti-corruption clearance.
Importance of Permanent Secretaries in Governance
Permanent Secretaries play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of government ministries. They provide continuity and stability, even as Commissioners come and go.
Their expertise and experience are invaluable in supporting Commissioners and implementing government policies.
In a nutshell, to get it right in Nigeria, it means Permanent Secretaries must work hand in hand with the ministers at the National and commissioners at the subnational. Underrating them is underrating the good governance the citizens are yearning for dailies.
