The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs. Grace Adayilo, the pioneer Head of the Civil Service of the FCT.

Adayilo, who made history as both the first Head of Service and the first woman to occupy the role in the FCT, passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 1, 2025.

President Bola Tinubu had approved her appointment on October 6, 2024. Before her elevation, she served as the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Monday, Wike described her passing as a painful loss.
“Her death is really sad and unfortunate,” the minister said.

Tributes are already pouring in from colleagues and civil service unions, recognizing Adayilo’s contributions to public service and her groundbreaking role in the administration of the Federal Capital Territory.

Further details surrounding her death and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the FCT Administration in the coming days.