President Bola Tinubu has mandated that civil servants drawing government salaries while living abroad must refund the money.
He also ordered punishment for their supervisors and department heads for allowing the fraud.
The directive was issued during the award night organized by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to mark the 2024 Civil Service Week.
The event also honored outstanding civil servants in core ministries.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the President expressed dismay over the actions of these “ghost workers.”
“During my recent visit to South Africa, I learned about employees who relocated abroad but continued to draw salaries without formally resigning. We must ensure those responsible are held accountable and restitution is made,” Tinubu said.
He emphasized that the fraudulent workers must refund the collected money and that their supervisors must be punished for their complicity.
Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing challenges in the civil service sector to ensure optimal performance.
“Our administration acknowledges the challenges the civil service is facing. We are committed to ensuring the welfare and development of all civil servants to deliver optimal performance for the growth of our nation,” the President said.
The event also included the presentation of top prizes to outstanding civil servants, with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, announcing the winners.
Prizes included a brand new 2023 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV, a two-bedroom semi-detached bungalow, and a serviced plot of land.
Additionally, Nigeria Customs Service committed to donating six Toyota Camry cars for the next set of top-performing officers.
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