The Federal Government has commenced the process of appointing five new Permanent Secretaries, in what it described as a renewed commitment to merit-based career progression and professionalism in the civil service.
According to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, the appointments were approved by President Bola Tinubu. Two of the vacancies arose from the retirement of Permanent Secretaries from Imo State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), while three additional slots are for the North-Central, North-East, and South-East zones, following the creation of new ministries.
Only civil servants on Grade Level 17, with at least two years on the rank and no pending disciplinary issues, are eligible to participate.
The process began with a screening exercise conducted by a committee of Permanent Secretaries under the supervision of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS). Candidates are also undergoing asset declaration and clearance with relevant anti-graft agencies.
The selection stages include:
- Written examination on 15 September
- ICT proficiency test on 17 September
- Oral interview on 19 September, to be conducted by a panel of serving and retired Permanent Secretaries, former Heads of Service, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, and representatives from the private sector, with anti-graft agencies observing.
Walson-Jack said the process is designed to uphold fairness and reward merit:
“This exercise reinforces government’s commitment to institutional growth, professionalism, and improved service delivery. It sends a clear message that promotion to the highest levels will be earned through competence, not favouritism.”
Civil service stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a morale booster for workers and a step towards strengthening the federal bureaucracy.
