In a significant move to alleviate financial burdens on job seekers, the Akwa Ibom State Government has approved the disbursement of over N1.6 billion as transport refunds to applicants who participated in its recent civil service recruitment exercise.
Financial Relief for Thousands of Applicants
Governor Umo Eno granted the approval following a briefing from the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong. The refund, set at N50,000 per applicant, is designated for the 33,461 individuals who sat for the Computer-Based Test (CBT). Governor Eno stated that this gesture was aimed at promoting fairness and supporting candidates who incurred substantial costs during the recruitment process.
The governor emphasized the state's commitment to acknowledging the efforts of all applicants. He noted that attending interviews and tests often places a heavy financial strain on individuals, and the refund serves as a tangible form of support from the government.
Recruitment Process and Next Steps
The CBT was conducted at the upgraded Civil Service Auditorium in Uyo, which is now equipped with over 400 computers, enhanced network systems, and a stable power supply to ensure a transparent and technologically driven screening.
Out of the 37,314 people who applied for the job openings, 33,461 took the test. The results showed that 12,502 candidates scored 50 per cent and above. Governor Eno announced that oral interviews for the 12,000 candidates who scored between 50 and 90 per cent are scheduled to take place between January and February 2026.
A committee has been directed to supervise these interview and final screening stages. Successful candidates from this phase, numbering 4,000, are expected to receive their employment letters by the first week of March 2026.
Alternative Pathway Through Skills Acquisition
For applicants who did not meet the required cut-off mark, Governor Eno unveiled an alternative opportunity. These individuals will be enrolled into the state's Dakkada Skills Acquisition Programme.
The governor explained that while the civil service cannot absorb all applicants, the state's ongoing projects require skilled manpower. The vocational training program is designed to equip citizens with valuable skills, creating another viable pathway to employment and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, candidates who passed the test but are not among the immediate 4,000 to be employed will be placed in a digital database. They will be given first consideration for future recruitment drives within the next two to three years.
In a notable inclusion, the Commissioner revealed that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) were given additional time for the test—one hour instead of the standard 40 minutes. One PWD candidate scored 60 per cent, while two top candidates from the general category achieved a score of 90 per cent.
This initiative by the Akwa Ibom State Government underscores a comprehensive approach to public service recruitment, blending immediate financial relief, structured employment opportunities, and long-term skills development for its youth.
