The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was plunged into mourning on Monday following the sudden death of its pioneering Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who reportedly passed away in the early hours of September 1, 2025.
Her demise was confirmed to our correspondent by her Special Assistant on Media, Anthony Odey, in a terse message that read simply: “Yes, please.” No further details were provided regarding the circumstances of her death.
Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 6, 2024, Adayilo etched her name in the annals of history as the first-ever Head of Service of the FCT, and notably, the first woman to hold the position. Her tenure symbolized a fresh chapter of reforms and inclusivity in Abuja’s civil service structure.
Before her appointment, she had distinguished herself as the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, where she was widely praised for her integrity, competence, and pragmatic leadership.
National Shock and Condolences
Although the Presidency has yet to issue an official statement, sources within the Presidential Villa told our correspondent that President Tinubu received the news with “deep sadness and shock.” A condolence message is expected from the President in the coming hours.
Similarly, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who worked closely with the late Adayilo, is said to be preparing an official tribute. A senior aide to the Minister described her passing as “a monumental loss, not just to the FCT Administration, but to the nation at large.”
Civil servants across the Territory have also begun paying tribute to the late trailblazer, with many describing her as a motherly figure who worked tirelessly to uplift the welfare and dignity of staff.
Mrs. Adayilo’s sudden passing is being seen as more than just the loss of a top-ranking civil servant; it is the silencing of a powerful voice for women in governance. Her appointment had been celebrated nationwide as a victory for gender inclusivity and a recognition of merit in the public service.
As the FCT braces for official pronouncements from the government and her family, the air in Abuja remains heavy with grief and disbelief.
Her legacy as the first female and pioneer FCT Head of Service will continue to inspire generations of women and men in Nigeria’s civil service.
PIONEER NEWS 