SERVICOM (Service Compact with All Nigerians)
SERVICOM is a public service initiative established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure effective and efficient delivery of services to citizens. It aims to foster transparency, accountability, and responsiveness across public institutions.
History
SERVICOM was established on March 21, 2004, following a Presidential Retreat on Service Delivery held earlier that year. This retreat, initiated by the Federal Government, was designed to address persistent inefficiency and poor-quality services in public institutions.
The initiative emerged as a direct response to citizens' complaints about:
- Delays
- Corruption
- Lack of accountability
It underscored the government's recognition of service delivery as a fundamental right of all Nigerians and as a critical element in fostering trust between the government and its people.
Legal Basis: SERVICOM operates under the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, particularly:
- Section 14(2)(b): Promotes the welfare and security of citizens
- Section 15(5): Aims to abolish corrupt practices
Though not backed by a specific law or decree from the National Assembly, SERVICOM was established through a presidential directive, making it a policy-driven mechanism rather than a statutory body.
Mandate
SERVICOM is mandated to:
- Ensure efficient and timely service delivery by public institutions
- Promote accountability
- Uphold citizens' rights to quality services
This is achieved through the implementation of service charters and monitoring mechanisms.
Leadership
SERVICOM is led by a National Coordinator, who:
- Oversees SERVICOM operations
- Ensures implementation of objectives
- Reports directly to the Presidency, highlighting its strategic importance
Governance Structure:
Presidential Steering Committee (PSC): Provides policy direction and monitors performance across MDAs.
SERVICOM Units in MDAs:
- Headed by nodal officers
- Implement service charters
- Monitor compliance
- Address service delivery complaints
- Collaborate with SERVICOM Headquarters to maintain service standards and improve responsiveness
Challenges and Criticisms
SERVICOM has faced significant challenges and criticisms:
In 2017, Amal Pepple, former Head of Service of the Federation, stated that SERVICOM had "failed woefully," pointing to:
- Indiscipline
- Corruption
- Inefficiency in the public service
A 2022 study highlighted ongoing issues in Nigerian public offices, describing them as being riddled with inefficiency and corruption, which hinder effective implementation of government policies.
See Also
- Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy(#)
- Nigerian Communications Commission(#)
- Federal Government of Nigeria(#)
- Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation(#)