By Tesleem Adesina Oyebamiji (PAFOO) ACA, ACTI, MFCI
The policy circular issued by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Ref: HCSF/SPSO/ODD/E&WP/6481116/47, dated August 1, 2022, clarifies the use of only academic qualifications for entry into the civil/public service of the Federation, as stipulated in the provisions of Circular Ref. No.HCSF/SPSO/ODD/NCE/CND.100/S.10/1HI/104 of 12th April, 2021, which states that all Professional Certificates shall no longer be used to enter into any cadre in the Public/Civil Service, but academic qualifications only.
This policy has significant implications for various stakeholders, including education, professional bodies, professional students, and the nation’s economy. Notably, this policy marks a significant shift from the previous practice where individuals with relevant professional qualifications could be employed at grade level 10 with or without any academic qualifications.
One of the major implications of this policy is a potential shift in focus towards degree-oriented education, which may undermine the value of professional certifications. This could lead to limited opportunities for HND holders, who have been pegged to level 14 even with their professional qualifications, restricting their career advancement opportunities in the public service. As a result, HND holders may experience demotivation and a brain drain in the public service, ultimately affecting the quality of services provided.
The policy also has significant implications for professional bodies like ICAN and ANAN. The restriction on using professional certificates for entry into the civil service may diminish the relevance of these certifications, leading to a decline in the number of professionals pursuing them. This could impact the quality of services provided by the public service, as professionals may not have the necessary skills and certifications to perform their duties effectively.
Professional students may also be affected by this policy, as they may face limited career advancement opportunities in the public service. This could discourage them from pursuing professional certifications, leading to an increased emphasis on acquiring academic qualifications. However, this may overlook the value of professional certifications, which are essential for developing specific skills and competencies.
The nation’s economy may also be impacted by this policy, as it may lead to a talent drain in the public service. Professionals may seek opportunities in the private sector where their certifications are valued, leading to a loss of skilled professionals in the public service. This could affect the quality of services provided, potentially impacting the nation’s economy and development. Furthermore, the policy may result in the underutilization of skills acquired through professional certifications, leading to inefficiencies and waste of resources.
Notably, this policy does not affect commissions and agencies created by Acts of the National Assembly, such as FIRS, CAC, ICPC, and NUPRC, to mention a few, which recognize the value of professional certifications in their operations. However, it applies to the core civil service, including offices that require the expertise of professionals in the accounting field, such as the Office of the Auditor-General, Accountant General of the Federation, Budget Office of the Federation, and Ministry of Finance. These offices should consider the implications of this policy on their ability to attract and retain skilled professionals and take steps to ensure that they can continue to procure the services of professionals with relevant certifications.
In light of this, professional bodies like ICAN and ANAN should engage with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation to review the policy and consider the value of professional certifications in the public service. The Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Budget Office of the Federation, and Ministry of Finance should also advocate for the recognition of professional certifications in the civil service, given their importance in delivering high-quality services.
In conclusion, the policy circular has far-reaching implications for various stakeholders, and its impact on the nation’s economy and development will depend on how it is implemented and received by the public service and professional bodies. It is essential to consider the potential consequences of this policy and ensure that it does not undermine the value of professional certifications, which are essential for developing a skilled and competent workforce.
Tesleem Adesina Oyebamiji (PAFOO) ACA, ACTI, MFCI, is of the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation. He can be reached on
07069199962/09046653285
sinato4all@yahoo.com
