FG Begins Digital Promotion Exams as JAMB Tests 6,000 Senior Civil Servants

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board on Thursday administered a computer-based promotional examination for 6,000 directorate-level staff under the Federal Civil Service Commission.

In the Federal Capital Territory, the test was conducted at JAMB’s CBT centre in Kogo, Bwari Area Council.

Speaking to journalists during the exercise, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, revealed that the promotion exam was also simultaneously held in the United Kingdom, United States, India, and Egypt.

“This is a bold initiative by the Federal Civil Service Commission, and I commend its visionary leadership,” Oloyede said. He added that candidates’ initial anxiety about using computers was unnecessary, noting that anyone who can operate a mobile phone can successfully take the exam.

He explained that the global deployment demonstrated JAMB’s capacity, saying, “The examination is taking place not only in Nigeria but in four other countries where our personnel have been deployed.”

Oloyede stated that the process would help civil servants become more comfortable with digital tools. “When I entered the hall, I saw apprehension, but after reading the instructions, many of them relaxed and even smiled,” he said, applauding the commission’s bold step.

Dr. Hussaini Adamu, the Commissioner representing the FCT and Niger State on the Federal Civil Service Commission, praised the candidates’ performance. He disclosed that the assessment began on Wednesday with about 1,500 participants across three sessions and described the process as transparent and efficient.

He noted that CCTV cameras monitored the halls to prevent malpractice, and added that the environment—including temperature control and security—was conducive for the exercise.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Prof. Adetunji Olaopa, said this was the first time the commission was using CBT for staff promotion exams. He expressed satisfaction with the successful conduct of the exam for 6,000 directorate cadre officers.

“It may seem like a small step, but it is significant for us. CBTs are widely used, but this is our first attempt, and we were confident because of our partnership with JAMB, an institution with decades of experience,” Olaopa said.

He praised Prof. Oloyede’s leadership, describing him as “a performer and a man of strong integrity,” crediting the collaboration for the smooth execution of the exercise.