Twenty candidates have lost out in the first-tier written examination for the ongoing process to select 5 new Permanent Secretaries for the Federal Civil Service.
While 73 candidates were accredited for the process, 3 candidates were absent, thereby leaving 70 persons to participate in the examination.
At the end of the examination, 53 of them successfully scaled through to the next stage of the selection process.
These were contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Director, Information and Public Relations.
With the process still ongoing, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to meritocracy, transparency, and fairness in the appointment of the Permanent Secretaries.
"This strong performance highlights the depth of talent within the Service and reinforces Government’s resolve to promote only the most competent, qualified, and visionary individuals into leadership positions in the Federal Civil Service.
"The next stage of the process is the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) proficiency test, scheduled for Wednesday, 17th September, 2025. This phase is designed to evaluate candidates’ digital competencies—an indispensable requirement for effective leadership in today’s technology-driven governance environment."
Speaking on the development, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, emphasized that the selection process remains credible, competitive, and reform-driven, aligning with the Federal Government’s vision for a professional, accountable, and future-ready public service.
“The advancement of 53 candidates to the next stage of this rigorous process reflects our deliberate efforts to uphold excellence in public service leadership.
"We are committed to ensuring that only individuals of proven competence, integrity, and vision emerge to lead the Federal Civil Service at the highest levels,” she stated.