Observation

The question was also popular with the candidates. Candidates performance on this question was above average. To those who scored low marks, in the (a) part, they could not provide detailed explanations to the importance of public service in Nigeria. Even in the (b) part, their lack of good idea of ways by which public service can be improved in the country led some candidates to score low marks in this. In totality, candidates’ performance on this question was impressive. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question:

(a)

1. It advices in the formulation of the policies of government.
2. It implements government policies.
3. It advises the government.
4. It creates employment opportunities.
5. It performs delegated /legislative functions.
6. It provides essential services at cheaper rates.
7. It acts as governmental agent to the general public.
8. It collects revenue for government.
9. It ensure continuity in governance.
10. It helps in public enlightenment/education.

(b)      

1. Training and re-training 
2. Press Control
3. Freedom of information
4. Effective legislative oversight function
5. Enhancement of due process mechanism
6. Ombudsman/Public Complaint Commission
7. Political Education
8. Value re-orientation
9. Incentive for meeting set goals
10. Job security
11. Improved working conditions/standard of living
12. Inculcation of discipline in the public service
13. Adherence to merits in appointments, promotion and discipline.
14. Use of Code of Conduct Bureau
15. Professionalization of Public Service/recruitment of qualified personnel
16. Control of undue red-tapism/bureaucracy
17. Depoliticization of Public Service
18. War against corruption in Public Service