President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially inaugurated Esther Walson-Jack as the Head of the Civil Service (HoS) of the Federation.
The brief ceremony took place at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja, just before the start of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Monday.
President Tinubu approved the new HoS’ appointment last month following the anticipated retirement of outgoing Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, on August 13, 2024.
During a valedictory session in honor of Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, President Tinubu urged the public service to remain dedicated, commending her for her exemplary service.
“Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan deserves our gratitude for her exceptional tenure as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Her commitment to duty, loyalty, and visionary leadership significantly transformed and reformed the Civil Service,” Tinubu remarked at the event.
“Her dedication to improving efficiency, transparency, and professionalism has set a high benchmark for public administration in Nigeria,” President Tinubu added. “As she steps down, we express our deep appreciation for her unwavering commitment and the substantial impact she has made on our nation.”
After the swearing-in, Walson-Jack pledged to build on existing reforms while introducing innovations and creativity to the service.
Yemi-Esan also encouraged civil servants to maintain professionalism in their duties.
“All public servants must remember that they serve the nation first and foremost. I urge them to prioritize the country’s progress above all else, as that is the path to achieving Nigeria’s destined greatness,” Yemi-Esan said.
Following the ceremony, the Council entered a closed-door session, with the newly inaugurated HoS in attendance.
In another development, President Tinubu congratulated Rena Wakama for her achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Wakama, the D’Tigress coach, led the Nigerian team to a historic quarter-final appearance (the first African team to do so, male or female) at the Games, before a gallant exit against the US. Her Olympic performance earned her the best women’s coach award, an honor Tinubu said was well-deserved.
“President Tinubu asserts that the recognition of Ms. Wakama, 32, by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), underscores her established leadership qualities and dedication to excellence,” presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale stated on Monday.
