Lagos State Government Commences 2026 Promotion Exercise for 5,258 Civil Servants
In a significant move to bolster its public service, the Lagos State Government has officially launched the 2026 promotion exercise, targeting a total of 5,258 civil servants across various grades. This initiative underscores the state's commitment to fostering a more efficient and capable workforce through structured reforms and performance-driven evaluations.
New Evaluation Processes Introduced for Senior Officers
The promotion exercise encompasses two key components designed to cater to different levels of the civil service. For officers on Grade Level 01–05 in the mainstream civil service and Grade Level 01–10 in parastatal organisations, the Revised Structured Training Programme (RSTP) has been implemented. This programme focuses on enhancing skills and knowledge through comprehensive training sessions.
Simultaneously, a groundbreaking Structured Evaluation Assessment Programme (SEAP) has been introduced for the first time, targeting senior officers on Grade Level 12–16 in parastatal organisations. SEAP includes rigorous written examinations and computer-based tests, marking the inaugural formal assessment for these officers as part of promotion requirements. This new system aims to ensure that career advancement is firmly anchored on competence, capacity development, and measurable performance.
Venues and Participation Details
The exercise is being conducted at two primary locations: the Public Service Staff Development Centre in Magodo and the Women Development Centre in Agege. Out of the total participants, 388 officers are undergoing the SEAP assessments, while 4,870 officers are engaged in the structured training programme under RSTP. This distribution highlights the state's focus on both foundational training and advanced evaluation for its workforce.
Government Officials Commend Orderly Conduct
During a monitoring visit, Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, praised the orderly conduct of participants and the seamless coordination at the centres. He urged all officers to approach the process with dedication and a strong sense of responsibility, emphasizing the government's goal of building an agile and smart workforce. Ayantayo noted that the introduction of SEAP will further tie promotions to demonstrable knowledge, skills, and competence, reinforcing a merit-based system.
Permanent Secretary Olubusola Abidakun, who was also present, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness and organisation. She reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to sustaining reforms that enhance productivity in the public service, ensuring that the civil service remains responsive to the state's developmental needs.
Exercise Timeline and Objectives
The promotion exercise is scheduled to run through the week and extend into the following week, featuring a series of training sessions and assessments. These activities are meticulously designed to prepare officers for higher responsibilities, aligning with the state's broader vision of a reformed and effective public service. By integrating new evaluation methods like SEAP, Lagos State aims to set a benchmark for civil service promotions, promoting transparency and excellence in governance.
