Stories by Ben Adoga, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, at the weekend, was on ground to honour the first woman and pioneer Head of Service (HoS) of the FCT Administration, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who died recently.
The service of songs in her honour, which was held at the National Christian Ecumenical Centre, Abuja, witnessed a massive turnout of mourners who came to pay their last respects.
Wike, in an emotional tribute, described Adayilo as an exceptional woman whose dedication, passion, and commitment stood out throughout her years of service.
“We all know that one day death will come, but her passing came as a shock, with deep pain. I have worked with many people, but she was different, exceptional, passionate, and committed to every assignment,” Wike said.
The minister recalled how he sought recommendations for a capable hand after the retirement of a senior officer. “I said I don’t want women with excuses, but I was told she was exceptional, and she truly was. I have not seen anyone who loved her profession this much,” he said.
Wike, who lamented that Adayilo never disclosed her ailment, acknowledged the brevity of life and the supremacy of the All-Knowing God, describing her as a great mobiliser who genuinely cared for her people.
“The lesson we can learn from her life is this: don’t say tomorrow is there, because tomorrow may never come. Whether you are a pastor, chorister, politician, or civil servant, every opportunity you have, serve to the glory of God,” he advised.
In a gesture of support, Wike also announced automatic employment for Adayilo’s children.
Delivering the sermon, Archbishop Maji Jonathan described life as transactional and urged the congregation to live with eternity in view. He noted that Grace Adayilo lived an impactful life and reminded all that death is a debt every mortal must pay.
Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the FCT Minister on Administration, Dr. Samuel Atang, described the late Head of Service as “a woman, who left no stone unturned in ensuring quality service delivery.”
He remembered her humility and said he never knew she was a preacher until recently and described her “humility personified.”
Also, the Acting Head of Civil Service, FCTA, Mrs. Nancy Nathan, who said “her home became a pilgrimage site after her passing,” challenged others to reflect: “If death knocks today, what will our testimonies be?”
Similarly, a former Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Pauline Tallen called her “Mama Africa, a politician with a mother’s heart,” remembering her widows’ empowerment programme that has supported over 500 women.
The Permanent Secretary, Common Services, FCTA, Mr. Rotimi Ajayi, read Psalm 90:1-7, which spoke of life’s brevity and God’s eternal presence.
Also, the Acting Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCTA, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-15, offering comfort about the resurrection hope for believers.
The service, which drew hundreds of mourners, was attended by top serving and former government officials, representatives of royal fathers, colleagues, family members, and friends, who came to honour her memory.
The FCT Administration and the Gbagyi nation will miss her dearly.
