FG Gives Fresh Update on Federal Civil Service Recruitment 2026 as CBT Faces Delay

The computer-based test (CBT) for the ongoing Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) recruitment has been delayed due to a lack of funds.

The Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, made this known during the 2026 budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Public Service Matters. He explained that the Commission does not have enough funding to carry out some of its key responsibilities, including organizing the CBT for shortlisted applicants.

The recruitment exercise began in January 2025 after the approval of a recruitment waiver in 2024. Shortlisted candidates were announced in July 2025 after the first stage of screening.

The next stage is the computer-based test, which all shortlisted applicants must take before moving forward in the recruitment process. However, the Commission currently lacks the funds needed to conduct the CBT across the country.

During the budget defence, Prof. Olaopa said the proposed allocation to the Commission is not enough to meet its operational needs. He added that the funding gap has already affected the full implementation of the 2024 recruitment waiver.

The Committee Chairman, Hon. Sani Umar, also raised concerns about the funding. He noted that the proposed ₦2.6 billion allocation, which includes ₦1.24 billion for personnel costs, may not be enough for the Commission to carry out its duties effectively, especially recruitment activities.

The Committee has directed the Budget Office of the Federation to review the allocation and consider increasing it to meet the Commission’s needs.

Organizing a nationwide computer-based test requires strong technical systems, proper logistics, and secure digital platforms. According to the Commission, more funding is needed to digitize the recruitment process, improve technological infrastructure, and ensure transparency during the examination.

There is no official announcement that the recruitment exercise has been cancelled. However, the funding shortage has slowed down preparations for the CBT.

The Commission assured that once funding issues are resolved and preparations are completed, shortlisted applicants will be informed about the next steps. All candidates who were shortlisted and updated their profiles remain eligible to take part in the CBT when it is scheduled.