Every day, thousands of Nigerians clock into offices across the country, hoping to serve their nation through the civil service. Yet behind the closed doors of ministries and agencies lies a harsh reality — a broken system that frustrates even the most dedicated workers.
The Nigerian civil service, once the backbone of governance, now struggles under layers of inefficiency, corruption, and outdated processes. For many civil servants, the ideal of public service has become a daily battle with bureaucracy and low morale.
Take Amina*, a mid-level officer in a federal ministry. She dreams of making positive changes, but her efforts are often stifled by red tape. Files pile up on her desk, approvals take months, and the reward for hard work seems distant. “It feels like you are running on a treadmill going nowhere,” she says.
This story is not unique. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, Nigeria continues to rank poorly, with graft still poisoning many sectors. Civil servants often face pressure to bend rules or turn a blind eye to wrongdoing just to ‘get things done.’ This creates a vicious cycle where incompetence thrives and public trust dwindles.
Worse still, irregular salaries and poor welfare undermine motivation. Many workers survive on hope rather than pay, leading to absenteeism and low productivity. The system, designed to support citizens, sometimes ends up serving itself.
However, it is important to recognise the unsung heroes within the service — those who keep the wheels turning despite the odds. They find ways to innovate quietly, pushing for reforms and better service delivery. Their commitment reminds us that change is possible, but it demands a collective effort.
Government must prioritise civil service reforms. Digitising processes, transparent recruitment, and better welfare packages can revive the system. Citizens, too, have a role to play by demanding accountability and refusing to tolerate corruption.
The diary of a Nigerian civil servant reveals a system in urgent need of repair. But it also shows a spirit of resilience worth harnessing. If Nigeria is to grow, its civil service must transform from a broken machine into a trusted engine of progress.
*Name changed for privacy.
This editorial aims to shine a light on the realities inside Nigeria’s civil service, encouraging reflection and action from all stakeholders. What’s your experience with the civil service? Share your thoughts below.
