The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance, James Faleke, has emphasized that Nigeria’s quest for rapid national development depends largely on the willingness of civil servants to uphold integrity, professionalism, and due process, even when faced with pressure from political office holders.
Faleke stressed that a strong and ethical civil service remains one of the most important foundations for effective governance, sustainable economic growth, and public confidence in government institutions.
According to him, civil servants must remain committed to the principles of accountability and transparency in carrying out their official responsibilities, regardless of external influences.
Integrity as a Pillar of National Progress
The lawmaker noted that the success of government policies and development programmes depends not only on political leadership but also on the dedication and integrity of the public service.
He explained that civil servants occupy strategic positions in policy implementation, financial management, and service delivery, making their commitment to due process essential for achieving national development goals.
Furthermore, he observed that adherence to established procedures promotes efficiency, reduces corruption, and ensures that public resources are utilized for the benefit of citizens.
Resisting Undue Political Pressure
Faleke urged public officials to remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties, even when confronted with pressure from political office holders seeking to bypass laid down procedures.
He maintained that the courage to uphold the law and follow established regulations is necessary for protecting public institutions and strengthening democratic governance.
According to him, decisions based on fairness, legality, and transparency will always produce better outcomes than actions influenced by personal or political interests.
Strengthening Accountability in Governance
The chairman also highlighted the importance of accountability in public administration, noting that responsible management of government resources is critical to national development.
He argued that strict compliance with financial regulations and procurement procedures helps prevent waste, promotes value for money, and enhances public trust in government institutions.
By encouraging transparency and ethical conduct, civil servants can contribute significantly to improving service delivery and supporting economic growth across the country.
Building a Culture of Professionalism
Faleke called for continuous efforts to strengthen professionalism within the civil service through training, institutional reforms, and adherence to ethical standards.
He emphasized that public officers should view themselves as custodians of the public interest and remain committed to serving Nigerians with honesty, diligence, and impartiality.
Such commitment, he said, would help create stronger institutions capable of driving long-term development and improving governance outcomes.
A Vision for Sustainable Development
James Faleke’s remarks underscore the critical role of integrity and due process in building a prosperous and accountable nation. As Nigeria continues to pursue economic transformation and institutional reforms, the commitment of civil servants to ethical conduct will remain essential to achieving lasting progress.
By upholding transparency, resisting undue influence, and faithfully implementing government policies, the nation’s public service can play a vital role in accelerating development, strengthening public confidence, and laying the foundation for a more efficient and prosperous Nigeria.
