ABUJA – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched its first-ever strategic training for mid-level officers, known as the FCT Leadership Enhancement and Development Program (FCT LEAD-P).
The initiative, approved by FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, aims to bridge service delivery gaps and strengthen governance structures within the administration for officers on Grade Levels 10 to 14.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Head of the Civil Service of the FCT Administration, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, emphasized that the program represents a significant milestone in the FCTA’s commitment to excellence in public service.
“This program marks a turning point in our efforts to enhance leadership capacities within the FCT Administration. We must express our deepest appreciation to the Honourable Minister, FCT, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (CON), for his unwavering support and express approval of this program,” she said.
Mrs. Adayilo acknowledged the Minister’s leadership in prioritizing staff development, adding that the initiative aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), which highlights the need for targeted training to improve service delivery.
The FCT LEAD-P program, she stated, is designed to train at least 100 officers annually, equipping them with the necessary skills for effective succession planning, self-development, and governance excellence.
“The journey of leadership is not just about personal achievements; it is about impact the impact you will have on your colleagues, the communities you serve, and the future of public service in our territory,” she told participants.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Common Services, Mr. Babatunde Rotimi Ajayi, underscored the transformative nature of the FCT LEAD-P program, stressing that it is not just a training exercise but a gateway to self-discovery and professional growth.
“We recognize the need for leaders who are not only proficient but also innovative, resilient, and adaptable. This program offers participants the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, partake in interactive workshops, and develop a deeper understanding of governance and public administration,” Ajayi said.
He further appreciated the FCT Minister’s commitment to staff development and urged participants to maximize the opportunity for learning and collaboration.
“Each successful cohort will be regarded as the elite crop of civil servants, distinguished by the depth of knowledge and expertise they have acquired. The insights and skills gained here will cut across all aspects of governance and service delivery,” he added.
On her part, the Acting Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, highlighted the program’s sustainability and long-term impact, assuring that the FCTA is committed to making FCT LEAD-P a continuous initiative.
The program is highly competitive, with 975 applications received in December 2024, and only the top 100 candidates will be selected for several months of intensive training.
Participants will undergo a rigorous three-stage selection process, including computer-based testing, written examinations, and oral interviews. Retired directors with years of experience will serve as mentors, offering practical insights to guide participants in their career progression
“We are building a leadership pipeline to ensure that our civil service remains effective, forward-thinking, and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said.
Dr. Ahmadu urged participants to embrace the mentorship, workshops, and collaborative projects embedded in the program, emphasizing that not all participants may complete the program on their first attempt, but opportunities will be available for those who remain within the required grade levels.
The event concluded with a charge to participants to become ambassadors of excellence and drivers of innovation in the FCT civil service.
With the inauguration of the first cohort, the FCT LEAD-P program sets the stage for a reformed, competent, and visionary civil service in Nigeria’s capital, reinforcing the FCTA’s commitment to good governance and effective leadership development.