In a proactive move aimed at bolstering national security and upholding confidentiality, the Federal Government, under the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, has taken steps to prevent unauthorized disclosure of sensitive official government documents.
This initiative follows recent incidents of leaks where sensitive documents found their way into the public domain, causing significant embarrassment to the government.
Folashade Yemi-Esan, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, highlighted the seriousness of the situation in a memo dated February 19, 2024, posted on the website of the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.
Dr. Yemi-Esan expressed deep concern over the leakages, deeming them “unacceptable” and emphasizing the urgent need for action to address this issue.
The memo, labeled HCSF/3065/VI/189, states, “It has been observed with dismay the increase in cases of leakage of sensitive official documents in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. This is very embarrassing to the government and therefore unacceptable.
“As part of efforts to curb this undesirable development, all permanent secretaries are to expedite the transition to the digitalized workflow system and ensure the effective deployment of the Enterprise Content Management Solution.
“This will minimize physical contact with official documents, thereby curtailing the rising incidence of leaks and their circulation.
“Furthermore, permanent secretaries are advised to sternly caution all staff against leaking and circulating official information and documents.
“Any officer caught engaging in such misconduct will face severe consequences in line with the relevant provisions of the Public Service Rules and other existing circulars.”
