President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, effective August 14, 2024. Here are seven things to know about her:
1. Extensive Experience in Public Service
Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack has had a remarkable career in public service for several decades. She began as a State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice and has held significant positions at both state and federal levels. Her extensive experience and dedication to public service are evident in her numerous roles and achievements.
2. Pioneer Staff in Bayelsa State
Following the creation of Bayelsa State in October 1996, Mrs. Walson-Jack was among the pioneer staff of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Justice and the newly formed Bayelsa State Civil Service. She played a crucial role in establishing the state’s foundational legal and administrative structures.
3. Accomplished Legal Drafter
As the only certified Legal Drafter in Bayelsa State, Mrs. Walson-Jack established and administered the Legal Drafting Department of the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Department of the State House of Assembly. She was responsible for drafting all edicts promulgated by Military Administrators from 1996 to 1999 and executive bills enacted as laws by the State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2002.
4. Leadership in the Federal Civil Service
In the Federal Civil Service, Mrs. Walson-Jack served as an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, where she was later promoted to Deputy Director. Her leadership and administrative skills were further demonstrated during her secondment to the Bayelsa State Government, where she held key positions such as Deputy Chief of Staff, pioneer Commissioner of Science, Technology and Manpower Development, and Chief of Staff, Government House.
5. Recognition and Awards
Mrs. Walson-Jack’s contributions to public service have earned her numerous accolades. She was named African Iconic Female Administrator of the Year (2024), received an Award of Excellence from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs & the Wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State (2019), and was recognized as Public Administrator of the Year for Bayelsa State (2008). She is also a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Nigeria’s foremost public policy think tank.
6. Published Author
Beyond her public service career, Mrs. Walson-Jack is an accomplished author. Her best-selling autobiography, “Roses in the Thorns,” details her journey of resilience and triumph, offering insights into her personal and professional life.
7. New Role as Head of Civil Service of the Federation
Mrs. Walson-Jack’s appointment as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, effective August 14, 2024, marks a significant milestone in her career. She takes over from Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, and is expected to bring her innovative flair, integrity, and stringent adherence to the rules and regulations.
