Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has commended Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), for her contributions to the reform and repositioning of the Federal Civil Service. Tinubu gave the commendation at the presentation of Walson-Jack’s two books, *I Planted: A Memoir of Purposeful Service* and *Beyond the Mandate: A Memoir on Leadership, Legacy and Labour of Public Service*.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the president, represented by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, described Walson-Jack as a distinguished public servant who had served at both the state and federal levels, rising to the highest bureaucratic position in the country. He emphasized that the books were an opportunity to celebrate not only her retirement after 34 years of service but also her commitment to institution-building and purposeful leadership.
Tinubu noted that Walson-Jack’s understanding of public service extended beyond achievements while in office, focusing on what is left behind for future generations. He acknowledged her efforts to make the Federal Civil Service a more responsive and result-oriented institution, recognizing that continuous evolution is necessary to meet the demands of a rapidly changing Nigeria and an increasingly complex world.
The president highlighted the importance of the Federal Civil Service in implementing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that much of the government’s policies, programs, and projects rely on its machinery. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to reforms aimed at transitioning from routine administration to purposeful delivery and measurable outcomes.
Tinubu praised the integration of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) with human resource management systems, stating that such reforms would enhance payroll integrity, improve human resource management, and promote accountability. He emphasized the need for extending digital reforms across the public sector to ensure a more efficient, data-driven, and citizen-focused government.
The books’ titles, he explained, reflect Walson-Jack’s public service philosophy, with *I Planted* representing an investment in institutions and people for long-term benefits, while *Beyond the Mandate* underscores leadership that enhances institutional strength for the future.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan congratulated Walson-Jack on her appointment as the first person from Bayelsa to become Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. He recounted her career progression as a testament to overcoming difficult experiences for greater opportunities. Jonathan emphasized the importance of merit and integrity in public administration, drawing parallels with Singapore under former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa, the chief presenter of *I Planted*, highlighted the memoir’s significance in recording Walson-Jack’s public service journey and the sacrifices involved. He described the book as a vital contribution to preserving institutional memory in a country where record-keeping is challenging.
Walson-Jack expressed that the books were part of her retirement activities, documenting her experiences, lessons, and observations about public administration. She emphasized that the books aim to inspire public servants, students, and researchers interested in governance. She acknowledged the support of her family, editorial and research team, publishers, reviewers, and endorsers in the publication of the books.
As she approaches her 60th birthday on August 27, Walson-Jack urged Nigerians to read the books and reflect on the lessons concerning purposeful leadership, institutional development, and preserving public-sector experience.
The event saw attendance from senior government officials, former public office holders, members of the diplomatic community, traditional and political leaders, industry captains, public servants, family, friends, and well-wishers.