61 directors fail exam, lose bid to become perm sec

No fewer than 61 directors failed the written examination for the appointment of new permanent secretaries in the federal civil service, which was held on Monday, November 6, 2023, The PUNCH reliably learnt.

A total of 85 directors were initially shortlisted for the examination out of which four were absent.

It was gathered that only 20 directors passed the exam and were invited to the next stage which is the ICT proficiency stage.

According to a memo dated November 7, 2023, obtained from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation which was dated, the 61 directors who failed the examination scored below 50 per cent, which disqualified them from the race.

The PUNCH had earlier reported that the recruitment process for new permanent secretaries by the Federal Government would commence by October 9, 2023, according to a circular dated September 25, 2023, which was released by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.

The process is expected to end around November and will comprise three stages, namely: written examination on public service and policy issues, information and communications technology proficiency and an oral interview.

Earlier in August, the OHCSF had made a call for directors on Grade Level 17 to apply to fill new and existing vacancies for the position of permanent secretaries.

The memo, dated August 21, 2023, was addressed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; all ministers and ministers of state; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Independent and Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission; Accountant-General of the Federation among others.

The statement, which was signed by the Head of Service, Folashade Yemi-Esan, noted that the recruitment process was commenced following the approval by the President, Bola Tinubu.