The federal government, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), has initiated the appointment process for five new Permanent Secretaries, following President Bola Tinubu’s recent endorsement.
This initiative aims to fill vacancies created by the retirement of Permanent Secretaries from Imo State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside three additional positions arising from the creation of new ministries under a rotational zonal arrangement.
In an official release by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations at OHCSF, it was disclosed that the appointments will include candidates from the North-Central, North-East, and South-East geopolitical zones.
Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), emphasized the rigorous and transparent nature of the selection process, designed to uphold fairness, credibility, and meritocracy.
“We are committed to selecting only the most qualified and capable officers,” she affirmed, underscoring the administration’s dedication to efficient governance and enhanced public service.
The recruitment began with a call for applications from officers at Grade Level 17 within the mainstream Federal Civil Service, each possessing a minimum of two years’ experience at this grade.
“Candidates were vetted by their current Permanent Secretaries to confirm they are free from any disciplinary issues before their names were submitted,” Walson-Jack explained.
Following this, a comprehensive list of eligible applicants was compiled and subjected to a thorough verification and screening process conducted by a Committee of Permanent Secretaries.
Importantly, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) provided oversight to guarantee the integrity of the entire procedure.
“The initial screening phase has been successfully completed, and we are now preparing for the written examination scheduled for Monday, 15th September 2025,” she added.
Walson-Jack detailed that the exams will take place at a secure federal facility, with both serving and retired Permanent Secretaries responsible for crafting and grading the tests.
She highlighted the significance of these steps, stating, “This process is crucial to maintaining a transparent, merit-based leadership within our public service, which is essential for national progress and improved service delivery.”
“Candidates who pass the written exam will proceed to an ICT skills assessment on Wednesday, 17th September 2025, followed by an oral interview on Friday, 19th September 2025,” she continued.
The final evaluation will be conducted by a distinguished panel, including the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission and representatives from diverse sectors, who will assess candidates comprehensively.
“Based on their overall performance and merit, final recommendations will be forwarded to the President for approval,” Walson-Jack concluded.
