By Aaron Ossai
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Finance, Hon. James Faleke has urged civil servants across the country to uphold integrity and adhere strictly to due process, describing them as critical drivers of Nigeria’s development.
Faleke made the call on the sidelines of the launch of The Nigerian Legislature: A Practical Guide for Lawmakers, a book authored by the retiring Clerk of the House Committee on Finance, Mr. Oscar Okoro held in Abuja to commemorate Okoro’s 60th birthday and retirement from public service.
According to the lawmaker, civil servants serve as the technocrats who provide the expertise needed for effective governance and national progress.
“The civil service builds the country. They are the technocrats and the people politicians rely on. If civil servants are committed to doing things properly, Nigeria will be better off,” Faleke said.
He stressed the importance of professionalism and adherence to established procedures, noting that public servants must be willing to insist on doing the right thing even when faced with pressure to bend the rules.
“Even when a politician says, ‘let us do it the other way,’ and a civil servant insists on following the rules, the country will be better for it. It is about dedication to Nigeria’s development. When you believe in the country, you want to see it succeed,” he added.
Faleke described Okoro as a dedicated, hardworking and selfless public servant whose career should serve as an example to younger generations.
“Okoro is a very hardworking man. Unlike many others, he is not driven by money; he simply wants things done properly and professionally. Every time I challenged him, he worked even harder. I believe he will excel in retirement,” he said.
Also speaking, Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Abubakar Saidu said his relationship with Okoro had evolved beyond official duties into a family bond.
He praised the retiring clerk as a consummate professional whose dedication, patience and commitment to excellence distinguished him throughout his career.
“He is very dedicated, very patient, highly professional, excellent and exemplary in the discharge of his duties. The younger generation has a lot to learn from him,” Saidu said.
The House spokesman, Hon. Akin Rotimi also described Okoro as a model public servant who rendered meritorious service to the National Assembly and the nation.
“My message to those in public service is that this is the kind of person they should model their careers after someone whose watchwords are integrity and diligence,” Rotimi said.
While noting that the National Assembly has established mentorship and leadership development structures, Rotimi said Okoro’s vast experience and institutional knowledge would be greatly missed.
Responding, Okoro attributed his success in public service to God, while emphasizing the values of hard work, humility, patience and respect.
“Life is a difficult and cautious journey. You must know your onions, work hard, be patient, humble and respectful. Without these qualities, you are bound to fail, whether in the National Assembly or anywhere else,” he said.
The retiring clerk disclosed that he plans to return to legal practice and consultancy while dedicating more time to mentoring young people and serving God.
Earlier, the book reviewer, Prof. Kabir Danladi of the Department of Public Law, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, described the publication as a reflection of the author’s commitment and dedication during his 27 years of service to the nation.
Danladi said the 335-page book offers a practical and institutional guide to Nigeria’s legislature, with particular focus on the National Assembly. According to him, the publication examines the constitutional foundations of the legislature, its internal structure, legislative procedures, oversight responsibilities and relationship with other arms of government.
Structured into nine chapters, the book provides both historical and constitutional perspectives while offering step-by-step guidance on legislative processes.
The professor recommended the book to lawmakers, politicians and Nigerians seeking a deeper understanding of the legislature, stressing that reading remains essential for personal development and national progress.
