Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike yesterday announced that President Bola Tinubu had directed the immediate employment of all four children of the late Head of the FCT Civil Service, Mrs Grace Adayilo.
The announcement was made at the National Christian Centre (Ecumenical) in Abuja, during the funeral service of Adayilo, who passed away on September 1, 2025.
The minister stated that the gesture was to provide for the family following the loss of their breadwinner.
In a tribute delivered at the church service, Wike described the late top civil servant, popularly known as ‘Mama Africa’, as an exceptionally dedicated, humble and loyal official.
“We all know that we will die one day, that is guaranteed, but there are certain deaths when it occurs, it pains.
“It becomes more painful when there is no sign that somebody whom you are relating with, somebody you are working with, just comes to work and the next day you hear that the person is no longer there,” he said.
The minister recounted how he first met Adayilo after her appointment as a Permanent Secretary, a position he noted was created by President Tinubu to encourage career progression within the FCT administration.
Hundreds gathered at the LEA Primary School in Galadima to honour Adayilo on Friday evening.
Despite the relentless downpour, colleagues, church members, neighbours, and well-wishers braved the elements, their attendance a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose legacy was defined by unwavering service and compassion.
Adayilo, who passed away on September 1, 2025, at the age of 57 after a brief illness, made history as the first female Head of Civil Service for the FCTA.
Senior special assistant to the FCT Minister on Administration, Mr Samuel Atang, led the tributes, describing Adayilo as someone who “left no stone unturned in ensuring quality service delivery.”
