Akajemeli lauded for transforming service delivery in Nigeria’s public sector

The immediate past National Coordinator of the Service Compact with All Nigerians (SERVICOM), Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli, has been celebrated for her remarkable impact on transforming service delivery within Nigeria’s public sector over the past few years.

Stakeholders attribute significant strides in the sector to her leadership, describing her as the most outstanding appointee since SERVICOM’s inception.

Through initiatives such as the SERVICOM Compliance Evaluation (SCE) reports, Service Charters, the Open Government Partnership, and public enlightenment radio programs, SERVICOM, under Akajemeli’s guidance, has fostered a stronger culture of excellence in service across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

These tools have not only held MDAs accountable to clearly defined service performance standards but have also empowered citizens to demand better services.

The result has been notable improvements in service delivery and organizational responsiveness across numerous agencies, marking a positive evolution in Nigeria’s public service landscape.

Stakeholders voiced their appreciation during a valedictory/send-off ceremony held in Akajemeli’s honor.

The event was filled with glowing tributes and heartfelt commendations, with a central message resonating: Akajemeli leaves behind not just a legacy, but a revitalized agency that has become a beacon of service delivery in Nigeria’s public sector.

Speaking at the occasion, Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), lauded Akajemeli’s achievements, recognizing her as a committed and innovative public servant whose work significantly transformed service delivery in Nigeria.

Akume, represented by Dr. Maurice Mbaeri, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office in OSGF, stated that Akajemeli was among the best officials who played vital roles in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He noted her dedication in accepting a challenging responsibility, prioritizing impactful service over financial incentives.

Other contributors highlighted Akajemeli’s efforts in promoting greater inclusion and accountability through the Open Government Partnership (OGP), solidifying SERVICOM’s role as a watchdog for transparent service processes across government institutions.

Her introduction of a robust Complaints Redress Mechanism and Strategic Evaluation Reports facilitated valuable feedback loops, enabling evidence-based interventions and enhanced citizen engagement.

Chioma Njoku, Director of Programmes at the AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation, described Akajemeli as a trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to public service has left an indelible mark. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you, Ma’am, as you retire from your esteemed position. Your integrity, professionalism, and leadership have not only enhanced service delivery across MDAs but also inspired a culture of accountability and transparency in public institutions.”

Njoku acknowledged that while SERVICOM often operated discreetly, its impact was substantial. “The agency rarely blows its trumpet, and many Nigerians may not fully realize the extent of its contributions,” she said, highlighting the strategic partnership between SERVICOM and the AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation as a significant achievement.

This collaboration led to capacity building initiatives, the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) 9000 certification of the Office of the Head of Service’s Customer Service Framework. “Your ability to navigate challenges despite limited resources and still drive sustainable improvements has been truly commendable,” Njoku added, expressing gratitude for Akajemeli’s role in mobilizing stakeholders and resources and wishing her a fulfilling retirement.

Sen. Allwell Onyesoh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character/Inter-Governmental Affairs, also congratulated Akajemeli for her significant achievements and milestone retirement.

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Represented by Mr. Tope Adeniji, Onyesoh noted that her years of service were marked by exceptional dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to SERVICOM’s goals, consistently exceeding expectations and making a meaningful impact on national service.

Dr. Joe Abah, former Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, described Akajemeli as a pivotal figure in the establishment and institutionalization of SERVICOM, with a continued collaboration that significantly improved service delivery in key public institutions.

Mrs. Henrietta Okokon, Public Awareness Manager at SERVICOM, lauded Akajemeli as a mentor and a crusader for excellence who transformed the mindset of service providers through strategic thinking and a focus on data-driven reforms. Her leadership earned her the respect of peers and subordinates, serving as a model for other public sector institutions.

The Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), represented by Mrs. Olanrewaju Sholabi, also commended Akajemeli for her outstanding service, describing her career as one marked by commitment, integrity, and excellence in public service delivery.

Sholabi highlighted Akajemeli’s pivotal role in addressing key service delivery challenges, enhancing citizen satisfaction and stakeholder confidence, and fostering a customer-centric, results-driven, and solution-oriented workforce.

As Mrs. Akajemeli retires from public service, the overwhelming consensus among stakeholders is that her legacy of transformative leadership and dedication to improving service delivery will be difficult to surpass.

CREDITS : NAN , Fidelia Okosodo and Okon Okon.