The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) has commenced the process of appointing five Permanent Secretaries, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.

The vacancies include two positions arising from the recent retirement of Permanent Secretaries from Imo State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as three zonal positions for the North-Central, North-East and South-East, created through the establishment of new ministries.

In a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, said the exercise was designed to ensure transparency, credibility and merit, in line with the government’s commitment to good governance.

According to her, only qualified officers on Grade Level 17 who have spent at least two years on the grade, and who have been cleared by their Permanent Secretaries as not facing any disciplinary action, are eligible to participate.

She explained that the process began with the compilation and screening of eligible officers by a committee of Permanent Secretaries, monitored by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

As part of the requirements, candidates completed asset declaration forms with the Code of Conduct Bureau, while clearances from the EFCC, ICPC and DSS are ongoing.

The next stage, a written examination, is scheduled for 15 September at a Federal Government facility. Successful candidates will proceed to an ICT proficiency test on 17 September.

Walson-Jack further noted that the final stage—an oral interview—will take place on 19 September. The interview panel will comprise serving and retired Permanent Secretaries, former Heads of Service, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, and representatives of the private sector. Anti-corruption agencies will also observe the process.

She added that the final recommendations will be submitted to the President for approval.

According to her, the exercise underscores the government’s commitment to professionalism, institutional capacity, and improved service delivery in the civil service.