Attitudinal Change: Overcoming Lethargy in the Nigerian Civil Service

Abstract

It is a common generalisation to hear statements such as, an average civil servant in Nigeria is lazy and has a poor attitude to work. Such generalizations are, however, sweeping and ought to be discouraged because attitudes to work differ and are attributable to many varied circumstances. This study attempts an analysis of the attitude prevalent in the Nigerian work environment. Rules and policies are also considered to present a holistic picture. The social learning theory as propounded by Bandura has been adopted by the study. The main methodology adopted is content analysis of mainly secondary data. Findings of the study revealed that there are many factors which influence attitude to work in the Nigeria public service. These factors include state of mind and disposition of the individual, diverse backgrounds and competencies, and the prevalent work environment. Thus, the findings showed that there is the need for total overhaul of the Nigerian civil service right from recruitment, training and ensuring proper reward systems and job security to ensure maximum utilisation of the work force. The study concludes with a call for change in attitude to work in the workplace. It further makes recommendations that will help the Federal Government and other policy makers to ensure a positive change in the attitude and predisposition of workers in the Nigerian Civil Service.