The IPPIS verification exercise exposed 1,618 civil servants with fake employment letters, announced Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan.
Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), disclosed during the 2024 Civil Service Week Celebrations in Abuja that the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) verification has uncovered 1,618 civil servants with fraudulent or illegal employment documents.
In addition to identifying these discrepancies, Yemi-Esan reported that 69,308 civil servants successfully completed the mandatory verification and have been duly integrated into the IPPIS system. She emphasized ongoing efforts under the Structured Mandatory Assessment-Based Training Programme (SMAT-P) to enhance the skills and capabilities of civil servants, with 8,905 individuals already benefiting from specialized training.
Addressing corruption within the civil service, Yemi-Esan highlighted that over 3,600 public servants are under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). This anti-corruption drive has resulted in the removal of several individuals, including retirees improperly listed on the payroll.
Efforts are also underway to rectify the issue of civil servants residing abroad while still receiving salaries. Yemi-Esan cautioned that stringent measures are being implemented, including the dismissal of those found in breach of employment regulations following physical verification exercises.
The HoCSF further noted that many of the affected individuals holding positions in parastatals, rather than core ministries, are part of a systemic challenge that her administration is aggressively addressing.
“It’s a Nigerian challenge. We are combating entrenched practices that undermine our efforts,” remarked Yemi-Esan, underscoring the determination to uphold transparency and accountability in the civil service.
Once the verification process is finalized, employees not present in the country will face automatic termination. Yemi-Esan acknowledged a positive trend where numerous individuals voluntarily resigned during the verification period, signaling a step towards clean governance and compliance.
