Concept:The Nigerian civil service operates on merit, meaning jobs and promotions are awarded based on ability and qualifications.
Explanation:Meritocracy ensures that civil servants are recruited through fair and competitive processes.
Candidates are selected based on their knowledge, skills, and competence.
Promotions within the service are also determined by performance and experience.
This system prevents favouritism, nepotism, and political interference in administration.
It helps to build a professional and efficient public service.
The civil service is not autonomous, as it remains under the control of the government.
It also operates within the executive arm, not under a system of strict separation of powers.
Instead, its guiding principle is the recruitment and advancement of the most qualified individuals.
The goal is to ensure that public duties are carried out effectively by capable personnel.
Thus, merit rather than personal connection determines success in the civil service.
Answer:The correct option is D. meritocracy.