Senator Saliu Mustapha, a representative of Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has advocated for the active involvement of retired permanent secretaries in governance and policy-making processes. He emphasized the wealth of experience and wisdom these seasoned administrators possess, recognizing them as crucial pillars supporting Nigeria’s foundation. Speaking at the Annual Conference of the Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries in Ilorin, Kwara State, Senator Mustapha underlined the significant contribution these individuals can make in tackling the nation’s challenges. He believes their insights, honed through years of experience and now free from the constraints of office, are invaluable assets for national development. He further stressed that retirement, for such accomplished individuals, is not an end but a transition to a new phase of service to the nation.
Permanent secretaries occupy a pivotal role in the administrative machinery of government. They are the highest-ranking civil servants within ministries and departments, responsible for translating government policies into actionable programs. Their expertise spans various sectors, including finance, education, health, and infrastructure, equipping them with a deep understanding of the complexities of governance. Over their careers, they accumulate a vast repository of knowledge about the inner workings of government, the challenges faced by different sectors, and the most effective strategies for policy implementation. This accumulated wisdom is a valuable resource that can be leveraged to guide current policy formulation and implementation.
Senator Mustapha’s call for the inclusion of retired permanent secretaries recognizes the critical need for continuity and institutional memory in governance. Often, changes in political leadership lead to disruptions in policy implementation and a loss of valuable institutional knowledge. Engaging retired permanent secretaries can bridge this gap, ensuring that valuable insights and lessons learned are not lost with each change of administration. They can provide mentorship to current officials, offer expert advice on policy matters, and contribute to long-term strategic planning.
Professor Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB), echoed Senator Mustapha’s sentiments, emphasizing the critical role permanent secretaries play in policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. He highlighted their deep understanding of the policy process, their ability to navigate the complexities of government bureaucracy, and their commitment to public service. These qualities make them ideal candidates to contribute to national development even after their formal retirement. Their involvement can ensure that policies are well-designed, effectively implemented, and regularly evaluated for their impact and effectiveness.
The call for the inclusion of retired permanent secretaries in governance aligns with the global trend of recognizing the value of experienced professionals in contributing to national development. Many countries actively engage retired civil servants and experts in various advisory roles, recognizing their expertise and experience as a valuable asset. This practice ensures that policy decisions are informed by a deep understanding of the issues at hand and that the implementation process benefits from the wisdom of those who have navigated similar challenges in the past.
Harnessing the experience of retired permanent secretaries can significantly enhance the quality of governance in Nigeria. Their involvement can lead to more effective policy formulation, better implementation strategies, and more robust evaluation mechanisms. By tapping into this valuable resource, Nigeria can strengthen its institutions, improve its policy-making processes, and ultimately achieve its development goals more effectively. Their continued engagement in governance is not just a recognition of their past contributions but a strategic investment in the future of the nation.
