The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has commended the developmental strides of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, describing his initiatives since assumption of office on November 12, 2024, as people-oriented and impactful.
Walson-Jack gave the commendation during a visit to Edo State for the public presentation of a book titled “Rebuilding the Nigerian Civil Service: A Reformer’s Perspective,” authored by the Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Osas Okungbowa.
She also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Okpebholo, where she applauded ongoing infrastructure and governance reforms in the state.
According to her, the governor’s developmental projects are already making visible impact and would continue to benefit residents across Edo State.
“We are here early in the day to attend the public presentation of a book written by the Head of Service of Edo State, Dr. Anthony Osas Okungbowa,” she said.
“I am happy to see Edo State and the developmental stride that Governor Monday Okpebholo has embarked upon. I am hoping to see the flyover bridge that is still under construction and look forward to coming back to Edo State to interact.”
Walson-Jack also praised the Edo State Head of Service for his commitment to public service reforms and his collaboration with the state government in strengthening the civil service structure.
She noted that Dr. Okungbowa’s performance reflects effective partnership between the state and federal civil service systems.
“The Edo Head of Service is doing very well and working assiduously with us on collaboration with state civil services across the federation,” she added.
In his response, Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed appreciation to the Head of Service of the Federation for her visit and attendance at the book presentation, despite her tight schedule.
He said her presence and remarks were encouraging and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to civil service and infrastructural development.
“I welcome you to Edo State and I am very sorry that due to my busy schedule I was unable to attend the book launch held in the state today,” the governor said.
“I am happy to see you, and I have admired you from afar. I am also grateful for the present you brought, especially the book presentation which is very impressive.”
Governor Okpebholo further thanked her for her kind words about Edo State, noting that his administration remains focused on delivering projects that improve the lives of citizens.
“You have said so much about Edo State, and we are grateful. You should not be intimidated about Edo State,” he said.
He also commended the Head of Service of the Federation for her leadership at the national level, describing her as highly professional and exemplary in her duties.
“We appreciate you for coming to Edo State. You have been doing well in your duties as Head of Service of the Federation. My Head of Service is taking after you, and if my Head of Service is doing well as a professional, I am sure you are super professional in your job,” the governor added.
The visit highlighted growing collaboration between federal and state civil service institutions, with renewed emphasis on reforms aimed at improving efficiency and governance delivery across Nigeria.
