By Angela Atabo

Mr Rafiu Adeladan, the immediate past Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, has emphasised the importance of mentorship, professional relationships and institutional support in achieving career success.

Adeladan stated this at a retirement celebration organised in his honour in Abuja, where he reflected on his years of service and professional achievements.

He said the guidance, encouragement and support he received from senior colleagues, mentors and friends contributed significantly to his career development and accomplishments in the public service.

The retired permanent secretary expressed profound appreciation to individuals who took personal interest in his career, describing their mentorship, friendship and encouragement as invaluable.

He particularly acknowledged senior colleagues who guided him throughout his years in service, noting that their advice helped shape his professional conduct and approach to official responsibilities.

Adeladan also commended the management and staff of the Ministry of Works for their cooperation, understanding and support, which he said made his career journey meaningful.

He expressed gratitude to Almighty God for guiding him throughout his career, acknowledging that his achievements and progress were made possible by divine grace.

“I want to first of all thank Almighty God for taking me this far, to Him be all the glory,” he said.

Adeladan also appreciated the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, and the Minister of State for Works, Mr Bello Goronyo, for their support and encouragement during his tenure.

He particularly described Goronyo as a brother, appreciating the cordial relationship and understanding they shared while serving in the ministry.

“I thank the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and also the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, who took me as a brother. I also thank colleagues and staff for their support,” he said.

The retired permanent secretary further expressed appreciation to individuals who stood by him during difficult periods, noting that their encouragement contributed significantly to his professional advancement.

“I will forever remain grateful to those who stood by me during challenging periods and contributed to my progress.”

Adeladan thanked the management and staff of the ministry for organising the retirement ceremony in his honour, describing it as an opportunity to recognise the contributions of those who supported his career.

He urged public servants to appreciate supportive relationships and acknowledge the contributions of others, stressing that mentorship, friendship and cooperation were essential to personal and professional development.

He also expressed gratitude to his family, particularly his wife, for her patience, understanding and sacrifices throughout his years in public service.

In his remarks, Umahi commended Adeladan for his dedication, commitment and contributions to the Federal Government’s infrastructure development efforts.

Umahi, who was represented by the Minister of State for Works, Mr Bello Goronyo, said Adeladan demonstrated exceptional commitment to duty and made significant sacrifices towards the successful implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda.

He described the retired permanent secretary as a humble, calm, hardworking and God-fearing individual whose contributions would remain memorable.

The minister added that Adeladan served with distinction during a critical period when the Federal Government embarked on major infrastructure projects, including the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

“He went out of his comfort zone and sometimes slept in the office to ensure that the aspirations of Mr President were achieved,” he said.

He assured that the ministry would maintain its relationship with Adeladan and continue to support him in his future endeavours.(NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab