Tunji-Ojo Pushes Sweeping Public Service Reforms, Says ‘Business as Usual’ Is Over

"Excessive bureaucracy and cumbersome procedures remain major obstacles to progress in the public sector." Tunji-Ojo 

..... Says “Complexity is the enemy of progress.” 

.... Stresses "the need to simplify administrative processes to unlock innovation and improve service delivery to Nigerians."

.... Commends civil servants in the Ministry of Interior for their professionalism and dedication, describing them as critical to the ministry’s achievements so far.

Nigeria's Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to far-reaching reforms aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening internal security and ensuring result-oriented governance across public institutions.

Speaking at the International Civil Service Conference themed “Reforms, Resilience and Results,” Tunji-Ojo said excessive bureaucracy and cumbersome procedures remain major obstacles to progress in the public sector.

According to the Tunji-Ojo, “complexity is the enemy of progress,” stressing the need to simplify administrative processes to unlock innovation and improve service delivery to Nigerians.

He declared that “business as usual has no place in public service” in the 21st century, noting that citizens now demand measurable outcomes rather than excuses from government officials.

Tunji-Ojo giving his address at the 2026 ICSC

Tunji-Ojo said the confidence reposed in public office holders must be matched with accountability, performance and a strong commitment to reforms.

Addressing members of the Federal Executive Council, heads of agencies, diplomats and industry leaders at the event, the minister underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable reforms.

He also commended civil servants in the Ministry of Interior for their professionalism and dedication, describing them as critical to the ministry’s achievements so far.

On the conference theme, the minister explained that successful reforms begin with a proper understanding of existing challenges.

He outlined what he described as three key questions that must guide any reform process: identifying the current realities, defining the desired outcomes and mapping out practical strategies to bridge the gap between both stages.

“You cannot solve a problem you do not understand,” Tunji-Ojo stated, warning that many reform initiatives fail because of poor diagnosis of underlying problems.

The minister further advocated a shift from attachment to outdated systems, urging public servants to embrace innovation, knowledge and practical understanding as essential tools for effective governance.

Reaffirming the ministry’s role in protecting Nigeria’s internal security architecture, he assured Nigerians of continued efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, improve operational efficiency and deliver impactful results aligned with national priorities.

The session was moderated by renowned media professional Stephanie Bussari.