FG Begins Process to Appoint Five Permanent Secretaries
FG Begins Process to Appoint Five Permanent Secretaries
The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation has commenced the process of appointing five new Permanent Secretaries, with the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
Two of the positions became vacant following the recent retirement of Permanent Secretaries representing Imo State and the Federal Capital Territory. The remaining three vacancies are zonal slots for the North-Central, North-East, and South-East, created as a result of the establishment of new ministries.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu, the Head of the Civil Service, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, emphasized that the appointment process is aimed at upholding transparency, credibility, and merit in line with the government’s commitment to good governance.
She explained that eligibility is restricted to officers on Grade Level 17 who have served at least two years on the rank and have been duly cleared by their Permanent Secretaries as not being under any disciplinary action.
She explained that the exercise began with the compilation and screening of qualified officers 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).
According to her, all candidates were also required to complete asset declaration forms with the Code of Conduct Bureau, while clearance processes by the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS are still ongoing.
Walson-Jack further disclosed that the next stage, a written examination, is scheduled for September 15 at a Federal Government facility. Candidates who pass this stage will proceed to an ICT proficiency test on September 17.
She said, “Anti-corruption agencies will also observe the process. The final recommendations will be submitted to the President for approval.”
According to the Head of the Civil Service, the exercise reflects the government’s resolve to promote professionalism, strengthen institutional capacity, and enhance service delivery within the civil service.
Since assuming office, President Bola Tinubu has appointed no fewer than 26 Permanent Secretaries to fill vacancies in the federal civil service. In November 2023, he swore in eight new Permanent Secretaries, followed by another eight in June 2024. In December 2024, eight more were appointed from among qualified directors, while an additional two Permanent Secretaries were appointed in March 2025.
