Abuja: The Permanent Secretary of the State House, Mr. Temitope Fashedemi, has called on staff members to avoid bickering and acrimony, emphasizing that such behaviors hinder productivity and professionalism. This message was delivered during a ceremony held to mark the retirement of two top management staff, Mr. Sule Tegina, Director of Finance and Accounts, and Mr. Ali Sufiyan, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, who retired upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, as per Public Service Rules.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the statement was issued by Mr. Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information and Public Relations, State House, on Tuesday in Abuja. The Permanent Secretary stressed the importance of ethical conduct, diligence, and professionalism for career growth and institutional efficiency. “Hard work, good conduct and professionalism always bring rewards at the end of the day,” Fashedemi remarked.
He praised the retirees for their dedication, competence, and integrity, highlighting their significant contributions to enhancing State House operations over the years. “They are seasoned administrators whose commitment enhanced efficiency and professionalism in the system,” he added.
Fashedemi encouraged the retirees to remain active and continue contributing to society and public service in advisory roles. “I enjoyed working with you. Keep your brains active. Do not retire to the village. Stay around and continue to add value,” he advised. Additionally, he reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, describing it as a priority of his administration. “Sometimes rewards come unannounced, but to whom much is given, much is expected,” he noted.
In his farewell remarks, Mr. Tegina expressed his gratitude to the State House management and staff for the opportunity to serve, stating, “I have worked in different places, and I have been fortunate not to work in a toxic environment throughout my career.” Similarly, Mr. Sufiyan thanked the Permanent Secretary and his department’s staff for their support during his tenure.
The event concluded with the presentation of gifts as colleagues, family members, and well-wishers honored the retirees and wished them good health and a fulfilling retirement.