The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development officially launched its weekly Performance Management System (PMS) Day in Abuja, signaling a new era in organizational performance within the civil service. The initiative, introduced by Permanent Secretary Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, aligns with directives from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, which designates every Thursday as PMS Day across various federal ministries, departments, and agencies. This strategic move aims to embed a culture of performance management within the public service, reflecting a commitment to the continuous improvement of accountability and productivity in government operations.
In his keynote address, Dr. Ogunbiyi emphasized that the PMS is not just a bureaucratic formality but a transformative framework that is vital for fostering a performance-driven culture. He highlighted that the PMS framework would enhance accountability and productivity by encouraging systematic planning, setting clear targets, and measuring outcomes efficiently. The intention behind this initiative is to institutionalize performance management, which is critical for elevating the overall effectiveness of public services and reaching Nigeria’s national development goals. By formalizing this culture, the ministry aims to create an environment conducive to employee growth and alignment of personal objectives with the broader ministry goals.
Ogunbiyi underscored the significance of collective responsibility among all staff levels, calling on senior management to lead by example in adopting these performance management practices. This leadership approach is crucial for fostering an environment where employees feel supported and motivated to commit to performance enhancement. The Permanent Secretary reiterated that the launch of PMS Day demonstrates the ministry’s dedication to providing high-quality services while reinforcing its leadership role in the implementation of Federal Government reforms. By doing so, the ministry hopes not only to improve its own performance but also to inspire other ministries in follow suit.
The implementation of PMS involves setting aside every Thursday for performance management activities, during which staff are encouraged to actively engage with the process. Ogunbiyi urged all employees to identify areas needing improvement while also celebrating their successes, fostering a culture of recognition that bolsters morale and motivation. The systematic approach of dedicating a specific day for performance management allows for consistent evaluation and refinement of individual and departmental contributions to the ministry’s overarching goals in housing and urban development.
Moreover, the Permanent Secretary spoke about the role of PMS as a benchmark for other ministries. By striving for a responsive and innovative public service, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development positions its performance management initiatives as models for operational excellence across the governance structure. This approach not only elevates the standards within the ministry itself but also encourages inter-agency cooperation and knowledge sharing, ultimately contributing toward a more cohesive civil service.
In conclusion, the launch of the PMS Day marks a significant step toward enhancing the ministry’s contributions to Nigeria’s housing and urban development sectors. Dr. Ogunbiyi’s vision for institutionalizing performance management is a call for a paradigm shift within the civil service, steering it towards greater accountability, productivity, and employee engagement. This initiative stands to transform operational practices and align individual efforts with the ministry’s objectives, reinforcing its commitment to delivering vital services that support national development ambitions. As the ministry embarks on this transformative journey, it remains to be seen how these strategies will translate into tangible outcomes for Nigeria’s public service landscape.
