The Federal Government has commenced a comprehensive personnel audit and skills gap analysis across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as part of efforts to strengthen data integrity, improve workforce planning, and drive a merit-based civil service.
The exercise, known as the Personnel Audit and Skills Gap Analysis (PASGA) Project, was officially launched in Abuja by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.
She said the project would correct years of fragmented and outdated personnel data that had hampered effective deployment and planning in the service.
According to her: “PASGA is a key element of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, designed to reposition the civil service as an efficient, accountable, and digitally driven institution in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
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She explained that the initiative would deliver accurate personnel records, identify skills gaps, and ensure targeted training and redeployment in line with government priorities.
Walson-Jack noted that the reform marks a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of the public service. She said the initiative reflects government’s commitment to innovation, talent optimization, and evidence-based human resource management.
She commended the Permanent Secretary, Common Services Office, and the Project Implementation Committee for their coordination and charged the consulting firm handling the project to demonstrate professionalism and technical precision throughout the exercise.
The Head of Service urged all permanent secretaries, directors, union leaders, and staff across MDAs to give their full cooperation, stressing that PASGA is not just an audit but a reform tool that will determine how placements, promotions, and performance are managed. She said the goal is to build a civil service that is data-driven, merit-based, and future-ready.
The Senior Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Knewrow Consulting, Mr. Ayo Muritala, whose firm is the implementing partner for the project, described the initiative as a defining moment for the Nigerian Civil Service.
He said the exercise, codenamed Project Phoenix, represents the rebirth and renewal of the civil service and will set a new benchmark for how public service data and workforce planning are managed.
Muritala stated that the company views the project as a national service rather than a mere contract, adding that its implementation will be guided by the values of people, ownership, and ingenuity. He said every civil servant would be reached wherever they are stationed, assuring that no one would need to travel to Abuja for verification.
He explained that the verification teams have been trained and equipped to ensure the process is seamless, credible, and transformative.
He added that the outcome of the project would not only meet expectations but also shape the future of the public service by improving accountability, data integrity, and workforce efficiency.
Muritala expressed appreciation to the Head of the Civil Service for her leadership and commitment to reform, saying the project signifies partnership with purpose and the pursuit of a legacy that will strengthen public administration for generations to come.
