The outgoing Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, has formally transferred leadership of Nigeria’s Federal Civil Service to her successor, Mr Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, with a call for sustained commitment to ongoing reforms.

The handover ceremony took place in Abuja on Thursday, marking the end of Walson-Jack’s tenure and the beginning of Enitan’s leadership of the nation’s administrative machinery. (Punch Newspapers)

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had appointed Enitan as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, with the appointment taking effect from August 27, 2026. He succeeds Walson-Jack, who retired after attaining the statutory retirement age. (State House Abuja)

During the ceremony, Walson-Jack expressed appreciation to civil servants, government officials and stakeholders who supported her throughout her time in office.

She described her tenure as a journey filled with both challenges and achievements, thanking those who contributed to the progress recorded during her administration.

“Two words to all of you in this room: thank you,” Walson-Jack said while addressing attendees at the ceremony.

Walson-Jack urges support for successor

The former Head of Service encouraged civil servants to give Enitan the same cooperation, encouragement and commitment they offered her during her tenure.

She said the focus of public service should go beyond individuals occupying leadership positions, stressing that the ultimate objective must remain improving Nigeria and delivering better services to citizens.

According to her, the success of the Federal Civil Service depends on collective responsibility, professionalism and dedication from all workers.

Walson-Jack also presented official handover documents to Enitan, explaining that the records captured only part of the activities and initiatives undertaken during her tenure.

She appreciated President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and for the support provided during her administration of the Federal Civil Service.

Enitan promises continuity and stronger service delivery

In his response, Enitan thanked Walson-Jack for her confidence and support, describing the responsibility of leading the Federal Civil Service as a major national assignment.

He acknowledged the achievements of his predecessor, saying her contributions had created a strong foundation for him to build upon.

Enitan said he was not assuming office to introduce unnecessary changes but to strengthen existing reforms and improve the efficiency of the civil service.

“I am not coming in to reinvent the wheel. I am coming in to lubricate the wheel so that the wheel can run more efficiently,” he said.

The new Head of Service pledged to promote a more professional, productive and citizen-focused public service.

He said efficiency, productivity, integrity and citizen-centredness would remain key principles guiding his leadership.

Enitan’s mandate as new Head of Service

The incoming HCSF said the Federal Civil Service has an important role in transforming government policies into practical results that improve the lives of Nigerians.

He promised to work with stakeholders to strengthen public administration and restore citizens’ confidence in government institutions.

Enitan also commended President Tinubu’s efforts toward improving national development and said the civil service would play a critical role in achieving government objectives.

The Presidency had earlier stated that Enitan’s extensive experience as a Permanent Secretary and his understanding of government operations informed his appointment. (State House Abuja)

Before his appointment, Enitan served as the Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Education and had previously worked at the Ministry of Police Affairs, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Office of the Vice President. (State House Abuja)

Transition at the top of Nigeria’s bureaucracy

The leadership change represents a major transition in Nigeria’s public administration system, with Enitan expected to continue ongoing efforts aimed at improving professionalism, accountability and efficiency within the Federal Civil Service.

The ceremony ended with goodwill messages and formal exchanges as Walson-Jack officially handed over responsibilities after about two years leading the service. (Punch Newspapers)

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation is the highest-ranking career official overseeing Nigeria’s federal bureaucracy.

The office plays a major role in coordinating ministries, improving administrative efficiency and implementing reforms aimed at strengthening government service delivery.

Recent administrations have focused on digital transformation, professionalism, accountability and improved productivity within the civil service