In further demonstration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to purposeful governance and human capital development, the Edo State Civil Service Commission on Thursday conducted a Computer-Based Test (CBT) for shortlisted candidates seeking employment as Agricultural and Environmental Officers.
The exercise, held in Benin City, represents a key phase in the Governor’s pledge to expand employment opportunities for qualified Edo citizens through a transparent and merit-driven recruitment process.
Addressing journalists at the CBT centre, the Chairman of the Edo State Civil Service Commission, Mr Sam Oko-Ose, mni, explained that the recruitment exercise aligns with the administration’s objective of strengthening the state civil service with competent professionals.
“Today, we are conducting a computer-based test for applicants seeking appointment as Community Development Officers and Agricultural Officers,” he said. “Successful candidates will be deployed to the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Agriculture, respectively.”
Mr Oko-Ose disclosed that although over 3,000 applications were received, only slightly over 400 candidates were shortlisted following a rigorous screening process.
“The number may appear small, but it reflects our strict adherence to eligibility criteria. Many applicants did not meet the required qualifications. For instance, where degree holders were requested, some HND holders applied, while others possessed qualifications unrelated to the advertised positions. It is therefore imperative that we engage only suitably qualified candidates,” he explained.
He further noted that the CBT constitutes only one stage of the recruitment process, adding that candidates who perform successfully will be invited for oral interviews, during which their credentials will be thoroughly verified.
“The oral interview will be the final stage of the recruitment process. At that point, we will assess both professional competence and suitability for public service,” he stated.
Reassuring applicants of the integrity and transparency of the exercise, Mr Oko-Ose emphasised that the commission is composed of seasoned professionals with proven records of service.
“The commission is made up of individuals of unquestionable integrity who have served the state in various capacities, including as Permanent Secretaries. We have reputations to protect and a responsibility to the people of Edo State,” he said.
He also reaffirmed the commission’s alignment with Governor Okpebholo’s values, describing the Governor as a leader of integrity whose confidence must be upheld.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo is a man of integrity, and we cannot afford to disappoint him or the people of Edo State. Our guiding principle is merit. It is not negotiable. Only qualified candidates will be employed,” he stressed.
Participants in the CBT commended the transparency and professionalism of the exercise. Ms Omoregbe A. Rosemary, an applicant for the position of Environmental Officer, and Mr Aituayuwa Hawkins, who applied for Agricultural Officer, described the process as fair and credible, expressing optimism about contributing meaningfully to the Edo State Civil Service if eventually selected.
The CBT exercise is widely regarded as a tangible follow-through on Governor Okpebholo’s earlier commitment to strengthen the state civil service through strategic recruitment, reinforcing public confidence in the administration’s resolve to translate promises into measurable action.
Signed:
Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State
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