Profile of new Head of Service, Didi Walson-Jack

Profile: Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack

Extensive Experience in Public Service

Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack has had a distinguished career in public service, spanning several decades. She began her journey as a State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice and has held various prominent positions at both state and federal levels. Her dedication to public service is reflected in her many roles and achievements throughout her career.

Pioneer Staff in Bayelsa State

When Bayelsa State was created 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 pivotal role in establishing the legal and administrative foundations of the state, contributing significantly to its early development.

Accomplished Legal Drafter

Mrs. Walson-Jack distinguished herself as the only certified Legal Drafter in Bayelsa State. She was instrumental in setting up and managing the Legal Drafting Department of the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Department of the State House of Assembly. Her responsibilities included drafting all edicts promulgated by the Military Administrators from 1996 to 1999, as well as executive bills enacted by the State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2002.

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, eventually rising to the position of Deputy Director. Her leadership and administrative expertise were further recognized during her secondment to the Bayelsa State Government, where she held key roles such as Deputy Chief of Staff, pioneer Commissioner of Science, Technology and Manpower Development, and Chief of Staff, Government House.

Recognition and Awards

Mrs. Walson-Jack’s contributions to public service have earned her numerous awards and accolades. She was named the African Iconic Female Administrator of the Year in 2024, received an Award of Excellence from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs & the Wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State in 2019, and was recognized as Public Administrator of the Year for Bayelsa State in 2008. Additionally, she is a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Nigeria’s foremost public policy think tank.

Published Author

Apart from her public service career, Mrs. Walson-Jack is also an accomplished author. Her best-selling autobiography, “Roses in the Thorns,” offers a deeply personal account of her journey of resilience and triumph, providing insights into both her personal and professional life.

New Role as Head of Civil Service of the Federation

On August 14, 2024, Mrs. Walson-Jack was appointed as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, marking a significant milestone in her career. She succeeds Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, and is expected to bring her innovative leadership, integrity, and strict adherence to regulations to this vital role in Nigeria’s public administration.