The Biography of Didi Esther Walson-Jack

Didi Esther Walson-Jack, a seasoned public servant and legal luminary, has recently been appointed as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in Nigeria.

With an impressive career spanning over three decades, Walson-Jack has risen, making significant contributions at the state and federal levels.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 27, 1965, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Didi Walson-Jack attended the Federal Government Girls’ College in Benin City and the Federal Government College in Ilorin for her secondary education.

She later pursued a Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Lagos, graduating in 1987 and being called to the Nigerian Bar the same year.

Career Journey

Walson-Jack began her legal career as a State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice in 1987. After the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996, she transferred her service to the newly formed state, where she played a crucial role in establishing its judicial and administrative systems.

She served as the only certified legal drafter in Bayelsa State, drafting all edicts and executive bills from 1996 to 2002.

In 2009, Walson-Jack joined the Federal Civil Service, starting as an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

She steadily rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities, including Deputy Director, Director of Special Duties, Director of Human Resource Management, and Director of Planning, Research and Statistics.

Her leadership skills and dedication to public service caught the attention of decision-makers, leading to her appointment as Permanent Secretary in 2017 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari.

She served in several ministries, including the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, and the Federal Ministry of Education.

During her tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), Walson-Jack initiated the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) program and made significant contributions to labor relations and the national minimum wage.

READ ALSO: The Biography of Damilola Oni

Appointment as Head of the Civil Service

On July 17, 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed Didi Walson-Jack as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, effective August 14, 2024. She took over from Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, who retired on August 13, 2024.

In her acceptance speech, Walson-Jack expressed gratitude for the opportunity and committed to advancing ongoing reforms within the civil service, emphasizing the importance of technology and the core principles of Accountability, Meritocracy, Professionalism, Loyalty, and Efficiency (AMPLE). She called for collaboration from all stakeholders to support the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Awards and Recognition

Walson-Jack’s contributions to public service have been widely recognized. She is a recipient of the National Honour of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and an alumna of the prestigious National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

Other notable awards include the African Iconic Female Administrator of the Year (2024), Award of Excellence by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs & the Wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State (2019), and the Public Administrator of the Year for Bayelsa State (2008).

Personal Life

Didi Walson-Jack is married to Hon. Nimi Walson-Jack, a prominent civic educator and former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association. Together, they have two children, both of whom have pursued careers in law.

Walson-Jack is an accomplished author, known for her best-selling autobiography, “Roses in the Thorns,” which chronicles her journey of resilience and triumph. She is also a Christian, a Lay Reader, and a Knight of the Anglican Communion.

Conclusion

Didi Walson-Jack’s appointment as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation is a testament to her exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service.

With her extensive experience, legal expertise, and innovative approach, she is poised to reinvigorate the Nigerian civil service and contribute to the realization of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

References

BrityBio