Tinubu Approves Jobs for Children of Late FCT Head of Service

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the automatic employment of the four children of the late Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who passed away on September 1, 2025.

The announcement was made on Saturday by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, during the funeral service for the deceased held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

Adayilo, born on June 21, 1956, died at the age of 57 after a brief illness. She was the first female and first indigenous Head of Service of the FCT Civil Service Commission, appointed by President Tinubu in October 2024. Before her elevation, she served as the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat.

Speaking at the solemn event, Wike said the President approved the employment in recognition of Adayilo’s service and to cushion the impact of her sudden demise on her family.

“Her children, no job. She was everything for them, for the family. On behalf of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. President has directed me to give the four children automatic employment. Because Mr. President understands that now there is no breadwinner, how will they survive?” Wike declared.

The minister added that one of Adayilo’s daughters, currently undergoing her national youth service in Port Harcourt, would benefit from the directive once she concludes her NYSC.

Wike praised the late HoS for her loyalty, humility, and commitment to the civil service, describing her as a passionate professional who prioritized the welfare of workers.

“I’ve never seen somebody who loved her profession like her. She always said: ‘Honourable Minister, you know that we are civil servants. These are the kinds of things that will make them appreciate and work hard.’ She did not joke with prompt payment of salaries and entitlements. She was a good mother and a true civil servant,” he said.

Family members, colleagues, and dignitaries at the service described Adayilo as a trailblazer and a pillar of integrity whose legacy would continue to inspire women in public service.