- Safiu Kehinde
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has vowed to improve the welfare of FCT Administration (FCTA) workers.
She made this known in an address on Thursday at a dinner and award ceremony honouring retired management staff of the FCTA and Federal Capital Development Authority, who retired between January and March.
The minister, represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Administration and Strategy, Mr Abdullahi Kauramata, at the event held in Abuja, stated that improved welfare would boost workers’ commitment.
“These ceremonies will help foster a sense of unity and strengthen friendships within the administration.
“This is by bringing together current and former staff members; it promotes networking, relationship-building, and knowledge sharing.
“This sense of community is essential for maintaining a positive work culture and facilitating smooth transitions within the FCTA community,” she said.
She, however, acknowledged the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike’s dedication to workers’ welfare, emphasising that workers must also contribute.
Meanwhile, Dr Udo Atang, Head of Civil Service, FCTA, commended the retirees for their lasting impact, citing their values of integrity, dedication, and service as an inspiration to those still in service.
He encouraged them to remain engaged in their communities, share their experience, and continue to be role models.
On her part, the Chairperson of the Dinner and Award committee, Dr Jumai Adamu, stressed that the event, introduced in 2023, recognised senior management staff that have reached 60 or completed 35 years of service.
She emphasised the importance of acknowledging and appreciating their contributions, which motivated those in active service and sets a positive example.
Commenting on the event, a retiree, Mrs Stella Adejube, who retired as an Assistant Director in March 2024, expressed her excitement to partake in the event.
“I am very excited for the honour. I am glad that I am alive and healthy to see this day.” She said.
Another retiree, Dr Okechuku Mbaleme, a Chief Consultant Orthopedics and Trauma, who retired in February 2024 as the Head of Clinical Services, Asokoro District Hospital, described his retirement as a thing of joy.
“It is a thing of joy to work and retire in good health. It is equally fulfilling to retire from public service and join the private service,” he said.