The general functions of the Civil service does NOT include

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which one is NOT a function of the Civil Service. So we are looking for the odd one out.

Step 2: Explain the concept The Civil Service is the body of permanent, salaried, non-political employees who work in government ministries and departments. They are part of the executive arm of government. Their main roles are:

• Advising the political leaders (ministers, commissioners) on policy matters
• Helping to formulate policies (by providing data, research, and technical advice)
• Implementing or executing government policies
• Collecting and managing government revenue (for example, through bodies like the FIRS and Customs, which are civil service agencies)
• Keeping records and giving continuity to government

The making of laws (legislation) belongs to the Legislature (the National Assembly at the federal level, State Houses of Assembly at the state level), not the Civil Service.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Collection and maintenance of government revenue: a civil service function, so it is not the answer.
• B. Enactment of laws: this is the function of the Legislature, so it is NOT a civil service function.
• C. Formulation of policies: civil servants assist in formulating policies, so it is not the answer.
• D. Giving advice to the political class: civil servants advise ministers, so it is not the answer.
• E. Implementation of policies: this is the core duty of the Civil Service, so it is not the answer.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **B.

Exam tip: Remember the separation of powers:

• Legislature makes laws
• Executive (with the Civil Service helping) implements laws and policies
• Judiciary interprets laws

Whenever you see "enactment," "making of laws," or "legislation" in a question about the Civil Service, it is almost always the wrong function to pick.