When it comes to the backbone of Nigeria’s civil service, President Bola Tinubu could only trust one name: Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON. Recently appointed as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Walson-Jack’s rise to this pivotal role on August 14, 2024, is a reflection of decades of relentless dedication, astute leadership, and a visionary approach to governance. With groundbreaking achievements and a reputation for integrity, her CV positions her as a transformative force in a system that demands nothing less than excellence and innovation at this point in time.
Mrs. Walson-Jack’s illustrious career began in the legal corridors of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, where she served as State Counsel. Her legal acumen and dedication soon distinguished her as a formidable figure in the public sector. However, it was her role as a pioneer staff member in the newly created Bayelsa State in 1996 that marked the beginning of a legacy that would redefine public service in Nigeria.
Read also: 10 Nigerian Youth Tech Experts Shaping the Nation’s Digital Future
As the only certified Legal Drafter in Bayelsa State, Mrs. Walson-Jack was instrumental in establishing the foundational legal and administrative frameworks that the state needed to function effectively. Her role in drafting edicts for the military administrators and executive bills for the State House of Assembly from 1996 to 2002 underscores her crucial contributions during this formative period.
Rising Through the Ranks: Leadership in Bayelsa and Beyond
Mrs. Walson-Jack’s expertise was not confined to the legal domain alone. Her leadership was further exemplified during her tenure as an Assistant Director at the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, where her outstanding performance earned her a promotion to Deputy Director. Her contributions were so valued that she was seconded to the Bayelsa State Government, where she served as Deputy Chief of Staff, the pioneer Commissioner of Science, Technology and Manpower Development, and eventually as Chief of Staff at the Government House.
Her pioneering efforts in Bayelsa State laid the groundwork for future developments in the state’s civil service and legal landscape, demonstrating her ability to lead and innovate in challenging environments.
National Influence: A Leader with Vision
The breadth of Mrs. Walson-Jack’s impact extended to the federal level, where she continued to leave make her mark. Appointed as a Federal Permanent Secretary in 2017, she served in several key ministries, bringing her characteristic blend of integrity, innovation, and strict adherence to civil service regulations to each role. Her strategic insights and administrative expertise earned her accolades, including being named the African Iconic Female Administrator of the Year in 2024.
Mrs. Walson-Jack’s recognition is not limited to awards. She is a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), where she contributes to shaping Nigeria’s public policy. Her membership in this esteemed body underscores her status as a thought leader in Nigeria’s civil service.
Author and Advocate: Beyond Public Service
Meanwhile, beyond her public service career, Mrs. Walson-Jack is also an accomplished author. Her autobiography, Roses in the Thorns, offers readers a glimpse into her life, revealing the resilience and determination that have propelled her to the pinnacle of her profession. The book has resonated with many, serving as both an inspiration and a guide for those navigating the complexities of life and career.
A New Chapter: Head of the Civil Service of the Federation
As she steps into her new role as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Walson-Jack is poised to lead with the same dedication and vision that have characterized her career. Her appointment comes at a critical time when the federal government is seeking innovation and a stringent adherence to civil service regulations. President Tinubu’s confidence in her ability to lead the civil service into a new era of efficiency and effectiveness is reemphasizes her track record of excellence.
Her predecessor, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, leaves behind a legacy of service, and Mrs. Walson-Jack’s succession marks the beginning of a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s civil service. As she takes on this mantle, Nigeria’s civil service stands on the brink of a transformative era, led by one of its most capable and visionary leaders.
