Eighteen out of 29 federal directors who took the Permanent Secretary Qualifying Examination did not pass.

They scored below the required 50% mark, making them ineligible for the next stage.

A memo signed by Gabriel Aduda, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, confirmed the results. According to the memo, only 11 directors passed the exam.

These successful candidates will move to the next stage of the selection process, which will take place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

The Federal Government, through the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, had earlier announced the selection process. The goal is to fill vacant permanent secretary positions in the civil service.

A separate memo from Didi Walson-Jack, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, listed the eligibility criteria. Government officials facing disciplinary actions were not allowed to apply.

The memo also confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the appointment process.

Additionally, only candidates from specific states could apply, following the Federal Character principle.

The selection process will continue over the next few weeks. More assessments will be carried out before final appointments are made. The government aims to ensure that only the best candidates are chosen for these important positions.