The Lagos State Government has unveiled a new assessment process for senior officers in parastatal organisations. The Structured Evaluation Assessment Programme is a significant departure from the traditional method of career advancement based solely on years of service. Under this new system, officers on Grade Levels 12-16 will be required to sit for written examinations and computer-based tests before being considered for promotion.
The initiative is part of the state government's commitment to a merit-driven public service. Career progression will now be anchored on competence, capacity development, and performance rather than years of service alone. This move aims to ensure that only the most qualified and capable officers are promoted to leadership positions.
A total of 388 officers are currently undergoing the assessment at the Public Service Staff Development Centre, Magodo, and the Women Development Centre, Agege. The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, has described the SEAP as central to the government's broader workforce agenda.
The assessment, which began on Tuesday, will run through the week and into the following week. The state government's decision to introduce this new assessment process is a step in the right direction, as it seeks to promote a more efficient and effective public service.
The Lagos State Government's decision to introduce a merit-based promotion system is a welcome move, especially considering the number of officers involved - 388. Commissioner Afolabi Ayantayo's commitment to sustaining reforms that enhance productivity in the public service is a positive step. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the fairness and transparency of the assessment process. It remains to be seen whether this new system will lead to a more efficient and effective public service. The state government must ensure that the assessment process is free from bias and that only the most qualified officers are promoted.
