President Bola Tinubu formally swore in Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack as the new Head of Civil Service of the Federation on Monday.
The ceremony took place at 1:00 pm in the Council Chamber of the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, just before the Federal Executive Council meeting.
Walson-Jack succeeds Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, who served from March 4, 2020, until August 12, 2024, shortly before reaching the retirement age of 60. The appointment follows President Tinubu’s approval on July 17.
During the ceremony, Tinubu expressed his confidence in Walson-Jack’s ability to succeed in her new role.
“You’re stepping into very big shoes, and we pray that God continues to guide you, provide you with wisdom and enhance your integrity to serve this country and the civil service in the most successful way,” Tinubu said.
The President also praised Dr. Yemi-Esan for her “exceptional tenure,” thanking her for her “commitment, duty, and loyalty” to the civil service.
Born in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on August 27, 1966, Walson-Jack holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos and was called to the bar in 1987.
She has held several prominent positions, including Solicitor-General of Bayelsa State and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice.
Her career in the Federal Civil Service began at the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, and she was most recently the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education.
Following the swearing-in, President Tinubu presided over the Federal Executive Council meeting, which had been postponed from the previous week due to discussions with Security Chiefs about nationwide protests.
The council is set to review several matters, including road projects in Kano, Benue, and Umuahia-Aba.
