Lagos Screens Candidates for Auditor-General Appointment Amid Transparency Push

The commission said the exercise was conducted following the redeployment of the former Auditor-General and in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Lagos State Audit Law.

The Lagos State Civil Service Commission has concluded the executive assessment and screening exercise for candidates seeking appointment as the state Auditor-General. The government announced the development via its Facebook page on Wednesday.

The commission said the exercise was conducted following the redeployment of the former Auditor-General and in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Lagos State Audit Law. In a statement on the exercise, the commission said shortlisted candidates underwent a rigorous selection process aimed at identifying the most qualified officer for the position.

The commission developed and administered a competency-based assessment framework to evaluate the candidates. The assessment panel comprised the Head of Service, members of the Civil Service Commission, permanent secretaries from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, representatives of the commission, and experienced retired public servants.

According to the commission, candidates were assessed through personnel record reviews, a Computer-Based Test, written assessments, oral presentations, case study analysis, group discussions, and an executive panel interview. The candidates were evaluated on technical competence, leadership ability, strategic thinking, integrity, decision-making skills, and professional experience.

The Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Boladele Dapo-Thomas, said the commission remained committed to ensuring that only qualified and ethical professionals were considered for leadership roles in the state's public service. The commission added that the outcome of the assessment would form the basis of its recommendation to the governor for the nomination of a candidate to the Office of the State Auditor-General.

Key Facts

• The exercise was conducted following the redeployment of the former Auditor-General. • The assessment panel comprised 12 members, including the Head of Service and members of the Civil Service Commission. • Candidates were evaluated on technical competence, leadership ability, strategic thinking, integrity, decision-making skills, and professional experience. • The commission developed and administered a competency-based assessment framework to evaluate the candidates. • The outcome of the assessment would form the basis of its recommendation to the governor for the nomination of a candidate to the Office of the State Auditor-General.

The Lagos State Civil Service Commission's commitment to transparency and meritocracy in the appointment process is a step towards strengthening accountability and excellence in governance. The commission's dedication to ensuring that only qualified and ethical professionals are considered for leadership roles in the state's public service is a welcome development.