Walson-Jack honours retiring AGF Madein, Ayodeji at farewell ceremony

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) held a valedictory session to honour two distinguished retirees: Nigeria’s first female Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, and former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Adeoye Ayodeji. The event took place during the monthly Service-Wide Meeting with Permanent Secretaries and key financial officials, according to a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Eno Olotu.

The Head of the Civil Service, Didi Walson-Jack, who led the ceremony, spoke highly of both retirees. “We are gathered here today to celebrate extraordinary careers and legacies of service,” she remarked. “What does it mean to leave a legacy in public service? For Mr. Adeoye and Dr. Madein, it means embodying integrity and excellence throughout their careers.”

Adeoye was celebrated as a “visionary leader” whose decades-long career has significantly impacted Nigeria’s civil service, with Walson-Jack noting his ability to manage complex national projects with precision and institutionalise best practices.

“His commitment to transparency and discipline has set a benchmark for future leaders,” she stated. “How can we ensure that this standard is maintained in the years to come?”

Madein was recognised not only for her groundbreaking role as the first female Accountant-General but also for her transformative impact on financial management in Nigeria. “Through her visionary leadership and innovation, she redefined excellence in public service,” Walson-Jack said. “What challenges did she face as a pioneer in this role, and how did she overcome them?”

She concluded with a heartfelt message: “Your legacies will inspire generations to come. We thank you, we honour you, and we wish you boundless success in this new chapter.”

The ceremony included heartfelt goodwill messages from fellow Permanent Secretaries, who reflected on the dedication and resilience demonstrated by both retirees. One Permanent Secretary remarked, “Their hard work has not only shaped our institutions but has also inspired many young professionals in the civil service.”

In their responses, Adeoye and Madein expressed deep gratitude for their opportunities to serve the nation. Mr. Adeoye stated, “It has been an honour to contribute to our great nation’s development. I urge my colleagues to remain committed to excellence.”

Madein added, “I am grateful for the support I received throughout my career; it takes a village to achieve what we have done together.”