Wike mourns passing of FCTA’s Head of Service, pledges support for family

FAVOUR ISHEMBER, Abuja

FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, paid a condolence visit to the family of Mrs. Grace Adayilo, the late Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Mrs. Adayilo passed away on September 1, 2025, leaving a void in the FCTA family.

During the visit, Wike expressed shock at her passing, revealing he had no prior knowledge of any illness. He described Mrs. Adayilo as a dedicated and committed public servant, a true Christian, and a reliable individual.

The atmosphere was heavy with emotion and tears, reflecting the impact of her loss on those who knew her.

As a seasoned politician and lawyer, Wike’s condolences to the family highlighted his respect for Mrs. Adayilo’s service and dedication. Her legacy as a dependable and hardworking individual will be remembered by her colleagues and the FCTA community.

He noted that when he first sought a recommendation for the Head of Service position, he was advised to consider a “very hard working and trustworthy” woman, adding, “Since I started working with her, I have had no cause for complaint.

The FCT Minister also shared that he had personally requested an extension of her tenure from the President, so that she could continue her invaluable contributions to the FCT Administration, but regretted that her service was abruptly cut short by death. “I thought I was going to enjoy that; I didn’t know that death had other plans. But God knows best”, the Minister said.

Addressing the grieving family, Barrister Wike emphasized the unpredictable nature of life and death, stating, “Nobody knows the day that death will come; nobody gives you notice for you to prepare”. He offered words of comfort and assured the family of the FCT Administration’s continued support.

The Minister further pledged to cover all burial expenses and immediately offer employment to her children, should they need it. “It’s painful, it’s unfortunate”, he said. “Money cannot replace her, but there is nothing that we can do”.

He said, “I’ve come here to identify with you and to say that the FCT Administration will continue to identify with her family…we are going to support you as necessary. I know she has four children, but I don’t know whether they are working. If they are not working, we will take that responsibility immediately so that they will become employed and every of the burial expenses, the FCT will take care of it”.

Responding on behalf of the family, Bishop Jonathan expressed profound gratitude to the Minister for his visit and support. He described the deceased as “a true mother and philanthropist”, affectionately known as “Mama Africa”. He highlighted her commitment to community service, mentioning her efforts in mentoring orphans and widows, and stressed that her death has left a vacuum that would be difficult to fill.

Jonathan also praised Barr. Wike’s exceptional leadership in the FCT, noting the tangible impact of his administration’s developmental programs across the capital territory.

“Thank you, Honourable Minister, for coming to our home,” he said. “We can’t thank you enough, but we ask that God Almighty bless you. And what you are doing for us in the FCT, it is only God that has appointed you to work on behalf of Mr. President. This is the first time we are feeling the impact of governance in the FCT”, he added.

The Minister who signed the condolence register opened for the deceased later joined the family in prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Mrs. Adayilo.

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