Abuja, Nigeria | September 17, 2025
The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has unveiled its first-ever strategic plan, covering the period 2026–2030, after 75 years of existence. The historic development marks a significant milestone in the Commission’s efforts to modernize Nigeria’s civil service and improve transparency in its operations.
Announcing the initiative in Abuja on Tuesday, FCSC Chairman, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, said the strategic plan provides a clear framework to reposition the civil service for greater efficiency, innovation, and service delivery. He explained that the plan aligns with the Federal Government’s broader reforms aimed at building a merit-driven and digitally compliant public service.
As part of the reform agenda, the Commission disclosed that beginning with the 2025 promotion examinations, all assessments will be conducted through Computer-Based Testing (CBT). The move, according to the Chairman, is designed to enhance fairness, reduce malpractice, and ensure a level playing field for all candidates.
“This is a historic shift for the Commission. For the first time in 75 years, we are not only unveiling a strategic plan but also adopting technology to drive promotions and recruitment. It is a bold step towards a transparent and accountable civil service,” Olaopa stated.
The 2026–2030 plan focuses on five key pillars: digital transformation, capacity building, accountability and transparency, performance management, and stakeholder engagement. The Commission said it would also prioritize gender inclusivity, staff welfare, and partnerships with international development agencies.
Civil service unions and reform advocates have welcomed the reforms, describing them as a long-awaited step to revamp Nigeria’s bureaucracy, which has often been criticized for inefficiency and corruption. However, they urged the Commission to ensure adequate infrastructure and technical support to guarantee a smooth rollout of the CBT system nationwide.
The unveiling of the strategic plan and the adoption of CBT underscore the government’s resolve to modernize the public sector, making it more responsive to the needs of Nigerians in the digital age.