Challenges and Prospects of Implementing the Tenure System in the Nigerian Federal Civil Service: Performance and Public Service Delivery

Abstract

The tenure system in the Nigerian federal civil service is a crucial aspect of the country's public sector management. It is designed to provide stability and continuity in public service delivery by ensuring that civil servants are not arbitrarily removed from their positions. The system also promotes meritocracy and career progression based on performance, as civil servants are expected to meet certain standards and benchmarks to earn promotions and job security. However, the tenure system is not without its challenges, including the potential for abuse and manipulation by political leaders, bureaucratic red tape, and inadequate performance evaluation mechanisms. Despite these challenges, the tenure system remains a vital aspect of Nigeria's federal civil service, and efforts must be made to improve its implementation and effectiveness to ensure the delivery of quality public services. This paper recommends among others that the tenure system in the federal civil service should be designed to promote productivity while ensuring job security for civil servants. Clear performance metrics, periodic reviews, training opportunities, rewards for exceptional performance, and regular system reviews can help achieve this objective.