CHRICED Mourns FCT Head of Service, Grace Adayilo, A Champion Of Justice and Indigenous Rights
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Honourable Madam Grace Adayilo, Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who died on Monday morning.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr Zikirullahi Ibrahim, CHRICED described Adayilo as “a symbol of resilience, a voice for the voiceless, and a fierce advocate for justice.”
Fondly known as “Mama Africa” among her people, Adayilo made history as the first indigenous woman to become FCT Head of Service.
She rose through the ranks of the civil service with integrity and compassion, leading thousands of workers while championing the rights and dignity of the Original Inhabitants of Abuja.
CHRICED recalled her global advocacy, particularly in 2023 when she represented the FCT’s indigenous struggle at the United Nations’ Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Geneva.
Draped in her community’s regalia, she amplified the plight of marginalised voices on the international stage.
Her tenure as Head of Service was marked by reforms that modernised operations, digitised processes, improved staff welfare and fostered collaboration across agencies.
“Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her legacy will continue to inspire our work and fuel our resolve,” CHRICED said.
