In a competitive selection process, 19 out of 38 directors shortlisted for the role of permanent secretaries in the Federal Civil Service have failed to pass the initial qualifying examination.
The Federal Government, through the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), began the process of appointing new permanent secretaries to address vacancies in eight states. According to a memo dated October 7, 2024, and signed by the Head of Civil Service, Didi Walson-Jack, officials under disciplinary review were excluded from applying for these positions. The memo further noted that the recruitment process had received approval from President Bola Tinubu.
Providing an update on the selection process, Eno Olotu, Director of Press at OHCSF, stated, “Out of the 38 eligible directors who sat for the examination, 19 have successfully passed this first stage. They will now advance to the second stage, scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, 2024, which will assess their proficiency in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for government operations.”
Olotu emphasized that the rigorous, three-stage selection process is designed to ensure transparency and to identify the most qualified candidates for the roles. The final stage will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, when successful candidates will appear before a panel of senior bureaucrats and private-sector representatives.
