President Bola Tinubu has appointed Abel Enitan as the incoming Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, with his tenure officially commencing on August 27, 2026. Enitan will take over from Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, who is stepping down from the Federal Civil Service after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
An indigene of Osun State, Enitan stands as the most senior Permanent Secretary within the Federal Civil Service, offering extensive administrative experience to his new position. Over a career spanning seven years and seven months as a Permanent Secretary, he has held positions in the Ministry of Police Affairs, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Office of the Vice President. He is presently serving as the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Education.
In his statement regarding the transition, President Tinubu extended deep gratitude to Mrs Walson-Jack for her impactful work, notable reforms, and overall commitment throughout her tenure, wishing her success in her future endeavors as the country recognizes her dedicated public service.
Looking forward, the President tasked the incoming civil service chief with building upon existing progress, strengthening professional standards, and enhancing overall performance to support the Renewed Hope Agenda. Tinubu encouraged Enitan to direct a civil service grounded in merit, accountability, and responsiveness to the expectations of the Nigerian public.
Enitan was born on December 12, 1966. He completed his secondary education at Ajibode Grammar School in Ibadan and the College of Arts and Science in Ile-Ife. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Banking from the University of Lagos in 1988, followed by a Master of Science degree in Public Policy Analysis from Nasarawa State University, Lafia, in 2015.
Starting August 27, Enitan will lead the workforce as the administration continues its efforts to refine public service operations and deliver on its strategic goals.
