Nigeria is set to host the 2026 International Civil Service Conference (ICSC), bringing together global public sector leaders, governance experts, reform advocates and development partners to discuss the future of public administration and institutional reforms.
The conference, organised by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, will hold in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on May 20 and 21, under the theme, “Reforms, Resilience and Results”.
The event, now in its second edition, is expected to serve as a high-level platform for policy dialogue, knowledge sharing and strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening public institutions and improving service delivery across countries.
A statement issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation said President Bola Tinubu is expected to formally declare the conference open, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to civil service transformation and results-driven governance.
The conference will attract senior government officials, heads of civil service institutions, development partners, policy experts and representatives of international organisations from Africa and other parts of the world.
Countries expected to participate include the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Switzerland, Ghana, The Gambia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Algeria, Sudan and Indonesia.
According to the organisers, the conference will feature plenary sessions, technical roundtables, fireside discussions and interactive engagements focused on key issues shaping modern public service systems.
Areas expected to dominate discussions include institutional reforms, digital transformation, leadership development, innovation, accountability, workforce management and improved public service delivery.
The organisers said the gathering would also create opportunities for networking and strategic partnerships among delegates and stakeholders committed to sustainable governance reforms.
In addition, exhibition booths will showcase innovative technologies, digital initiatives and institutional best practices designed to strengthen governance systems and improve efficiency in public service operations.
Speaking ahead of the conference, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the event as a timely intervention aimed at sustaining reform momentum and building a more resilient, accountable and citizen-focused public service.
She said the conference would highlight practical reform strategies that have strengthened institutions and improved governance outcomes in different countries.
Walson-Jack also commended sponsors, development partners and supporting organisations for their collaboration toward ensuring a successful conference.
The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a world-class event capable of deepening global partnerships and advancing conversations around innovative and results-oriented public service reforms.
