*By: Aishat Ohunene Yusuf*
The Kogi State Government, through the Office of the Head of Civil Service, in collaboration with the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), has commenced a two-day capacity-building programme for substantive Level 16 officers across the state.
In addition, a Computer-Based Test (CBT) screening has also been scheduled for 35 qualified officers drawn from seven Local Government Areas, as part of a transparent and merit-driven selection process to fill the upcoming vacancies for Permanent Secretary positions.
The shortlisted officers were drawn from the following Local Government Areas:
Ankpa – 7 candidates, Dekina – 4 candidates, Ibaji – 4 candidates, Idah – 6 candidates, Kogi/Koton Karfe – 4 candidates, Lokoja – 5 candidates and Yagba West – 5 candidates
The training and screening initiative is strategically designed to sharpen the leadership skills of aspiring Permanent Secretaries and adequately prepare them for the evolving demands of public sector governance.
While addressing the officers during the preparatory session, the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Elijah Evinemi, FCA, commended the participants for their dedication and the strides they have made in the service. He charged them to approach the screening process with a strong sense of responsibility, integrity, and professionalism.
Dr. Evinemi further advised the officers to view the exercise not merely as a competition but as a platform to demonstrate competence, vision, and readiness for higher leadership. He emphasized that the selection process would be strictly merit-based and would reward excellence and capacity.
“This is a defining moment not just for your personal career, but for the future of the Kogi State Civil Service. Let your performance reflect your readiness to serve at the highest levels of responsibility,” he stated.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo (FCA), to revitalizing the public service through institutionalized capacity development, transparency, and competitive appointment processes.
The Head of Civil Service further reiterated the government’s unwavering resolve to reform the service for enhanced productivity, accountability, and efficient service delivery across the state.
*Information Officer*
*Office of the Head of Civil Service*
Last modified: June 30, 2025
