Junior workers in the Federal Government service may lose their jobs if they fail their compulsory promotion exam three times in a row.
The decision was announced in a new directive issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. The circular was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Career Management Office, Dr Binyerem Ukaira, on behalf of the Head of Service, Didi Walson-Jack.
The policy is part of efforts to improve discipline and work output across the public service.
Under the new rule, passing the confirmation or promotion exam is not only needed for career growth but also for keeping one’s job. Any officer who fails the exam three consecutive times will be required to leave the service.
The directive also set a time limit for taking the exam. Any worker who does not sit for the confirmation test within three years of being employed will also be asked to exit the service.
The government stated that this rule is based on existing Public Service Rules and must be followed by all ministries, departments, and agencies. Heads of these offices have been instructed to ensure full compliance.
The 2026 confirmation and promotion examination, known as COMPRO, will be conducted using a computer-based format. It is meant for newly recruited workers on salary grade levels 01 to 06.
Officials explained that the exam plays an important role in maintaining standards in the civil service. It checks the knowledge and readiness of workers before they can be confirmed or promoted.
Registration for the exam has started online, and eligible workers are expected to complete the process through their respective ministries and agencies. Candidates must have spent at least six months in service before they can apply, and they must be officially nominated.
Applicants are also required to provide correct contact details and complete all registration steps. Anyone who fails to meet the accreditation requirements will not be allowed to sit for the exam.
The test will cover areas such as English Language, Public Service Rules, Financial Regulations, General Paper, and Computer Literacy.
The COMPRO exam has been part of Nigeria’s civil service system for years. It is backed by provisions in the Public Service Rules, although enforcement has not always been strict in the past.