Didi Walson-Jack has assumed office as the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, outlining her vision for the ministry. She acknowledged the legacy of distinguished predecessors, particularly highlighting the remarkable contributions of Folashade Yemi-Esan and David Adejo Andrew.
She expressed heartfelt appreciation for Andrew’s 35 years of service and wished him a restful retirement. Excitement resonated in Walson-Jack’s words as she embraced the ministry’s unique mandate to prescribe and maintain uniform education standards nationwide.
Emphasizing alignment with the priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, she urged a collective effort to elevate public service delivery.
With a strategic plan focusing on capacity building, talent management, innovation, digitalization, and staff welfare, Walson-Jack outlined a vision to reshape the narrative associated with the public sector, emphasizing excellence and productivity.
Addressing the mode of operation, Walson-Jack stressed the ministry’s duty to the Almighty God and the people of Nigeria. She urged a commitment to truth, honesty, fairness, and justice, emphasizing the responsibility to uphold the principles of good governance.
She promised to lead with transparency, pledging to correct anomalies and foster diligence, responsiveness, efficiency, commitment, and dedication among the ministry’s workforce.
To encourage excellence and meritocracy, Walson-Jack announced the establishment of a performance-driven rewards and recognition system, aligning with the relevant public service rules.
Recognizing the importance of labor and management relations, Walson-Jack, as the pioneer permanent secretary in the re-established service welfare office, committed to addressing issues that could lead to conflicts and improving communication between unions and management.
In a clear message to union leaders, she emphasized unity in delivering quality service to the nation, marking the end of the “we” versus “them” era.
Walson-Jack thanked the Directorate cadre staff, FME staff, and others for the heartwarming welcome. She expressed gratitude for the continued support and goodwill, promising a fruitful working relationship.
She welcomed all to a new era of excellent service, closing with blessings for physical strength, courage, and compassion for all in service to the nation.
Didi Walson-Jack’s assumption of office marks a pivotal moment for the Federal Ministry of Education, promising a renewed commitment to excellence, transparency, and service to the people of Nigeria.
