The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation has commenced the appointment processprocess for five permanent secretaries, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval.
This initiative addresses two vacancies resulting from the recent retirements of permanent secretaries in Imo and Abuja, along with three zonal vacancies created in the North-Central, North-East, and South-East regions due to the establishment of new ministries.
Didi Walson-Jack, the head of the civil service, stated that the process aims to uphold transparency, credibility, and merit, reflecting the government’s dedication to good governance.
Eligible candidates must be officers on Grade Level 17, with a minimum of two years in their current grade, and must have received clearance from their Permanent Secretaries, confirming they are not under any disciplinary action.
The process began with the compilation and vetting of eligible officers conducted by a Committee of Permanent Secretaries, under the oversight of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and the State Security Service.
Candidates have also submitted asset declaration forms to the Code of Conduct Bureau, with clearances from the EFCC, ICPC, and SSS currently being processed.
Ms. Walson-Jack announced that the written examination, the next step in the selection process, is scheduled for September 15 at a Federal Government facility. Successful candidates will then take an ICT proficiency test on September 17.
The final stage, an oral interview, is set for September 19 and will involve a panel comprising serving and retired permanent secretaries, former heads of service, the chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, and representatives from the private sector.
She emphasized that anti-corruption agencies will be present to observe the process, with final recommendations to be submitted to the President for approval.
According to the Head of Service, this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing professionalism, institutional capacity, and service delivery within the civil service.
(NAN)
