President Bola Tinubu has appointed Didi Walson-Jack as head of the civil service of the federation with effect from August 14, 2024.
Below are eight things to know about her:
1. Mrs Didi Walson-Jack’s career in public service began as a state counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice.
2. She was part of the pioneer staff of Bayelsa State Ministry of Justice following the creation of the state in October 1996. She played a crucial role in establishing foundational legal and administrative structures in the state.
3. As a 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. She is a former chief of staff, deputy chief of staff, pioneer commissioner of science, technology and manpower development in Bayelsa.
5. In the federal civil service, she served as an assistant director in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs before being promoted to deputy director.
6. Mrs Walson-Jack is also an author. Her autobiography Roses in the Thorns details her journey of resilience and triumph, offering insights into her personal and professional life.
7. Her 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 and the wife of the governor of Bayelsa State (2019), and was recognised as Public Administrator of the Year for Bayelsa State (2008).
8. She is a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
