By Nana Musa
The outgoing Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs Lydia Jafiya, says the ministry is the engine room of the economy, and plays a critical role in national stability.
Jafiya said this during her retirement and handover ceremony in Abuja on Friday.
She said that any error or disunity within the ministry would extend to the larger society,
“We must not drop the ball, finance have always been at the top of its affairs,” she said.
Jafiya urged the management and staff of the ministry to continuously support the new Permanent Secretary.
She said that she served across various ministries before concluding her career in finance.
“I am leaving with a grateful heart, acknowledging the support of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, and the Minister of State, Dr Doris Anite.
“This ministry is one of the best professional homes I could have wished for,” she said.
The outgoing permanent secretary commended the directors and staff for unmatched level of collaboration and “esprit de corps”.
She said that their teamwork made every challenge surmountable.
Jafiya also commended the media for its fairness and professionalism.
“A word from the media can make or mar an institution.
“Thank you for standing by us and for your positive reports,” she said.
She also commended the unions for their unwavering commitment to staff welfare and urged them to continue prioritising the needs of workers above all else.
He urged them to support the new Permanent Secretary, Mr Raymond Omachi.
“He has been pursuing me everywhere down to retirement, please extend the same support you have given me. You will enjoy working with him.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the honour of this gathering, there is time to start and there is time to end.
“I thank the Almighty for keeping me all through these years. Civil service is a good place to work, especially when you are committed and dedicated.” She said.
The new permanent secretary commended Jafiya, describing her as a great leader.
“You have built more than a team, a team of committed directors.
“All the good things you have been doing, I will follow the foundation you have built, I will build on it,” he said.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, and the Minister for the opportunity given to him.
All the directors in the ministry where present and they commended the outgoing PSF for her dedication towards the ministry and their welfare. (NAN)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
