By Joel Ajayi
The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has restated the Federal Government’s firm commitment to merit, transparency, and fairness in the appointment of Permanent Secretaries, following the successful completion of the first-tier written examination for aspirants to the Service’s highest leadership positions.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the OHCSF Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu, it was disclosed that out of 73 accredited candidates, three were absent. Of the 70 who sat for the exam, 53 candidates successfully advanced to the next stage. This outcome, the statement noted, underscores the wealth of talent within the Civil Service and reinforces Government’s resolve to elevate only the most qualified, competent, and visionary individuals to leadership.
The next phase of the process—an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) proficiency test—is scheduled for Wednesday, 17th September 2025. This stage will test candidates’ digital skills, now considered indispensable for effective leadership in a modern, technology-driven governance landscape.
Speaking on the development, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, stressed that the ongoing process remains credible, competitive, and reform-oriented, in line with the Federal Government’s vision for a professional, accountable, and future-ready Civil Service.
“The advancement of 53 candidates to the next stage of this rigorous exercise reflects our determination to uphold excellence in public service leadership. We remain committed to ensuring that only individuals of proven competence, integrity, and vision emerge to lead the Federal Civil Service at the highest levels,” she affirmed.
The OHCSF assured Nigerians that the entire process continues to be guided by the principles of fairness and integrity, consistent with the Federal Government’s wider governance and reform agenda.
