Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Sunday, charged Permanent Secretaries and top management of the Delta State Civil Service to uphold professionalism and positively impact the state with their services.
Governor Oborevwori gave the charge at the 60th birth anniversary and retirement thanksgiving of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engineer Frederick Edafioghor, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Owhelogbo in Isoko North Local government area.
The Governor said leaving an impactful life in service was better than short-lived instant gain and advocated for sustainable excellence in service delivery.
He congratulated the celebrant, Engr Edafioghor for putting his best while in service, a successful retirement and for attaining 60 years, and urged him to continue with his professional advice for the growth and development of the state.
The governor equally thanked the retired Permanent Secretary for his input in bringing Julius Berger to execute road and flyover projects in Warri and its environs.
He assured that his administration would continue to give its best and sued for the contribution of all stakeholders to fast-track the all round development of the state.
While describing the retired Permanent Secretary as a thorough bred professional who contributed immensely to infrastructural development in the state, Governor Oborevwori urged serving officers to remain committed to rendering quality service for the people of the state.
He said: “Pray so that you can finish very well, because when you finish if there is nothing for you to be remembered for, then you did not land well.
“Don’t look at what you can get; think of the impact you can make for Delta State to move forward. Fred Edafioghor, you are retired but not tired. Anytime you are called upon for advice, I know you will not hesitate to avail us with your expert opinion.
“You have served very well and as you have retired today, you have come to give thanks to God in sound health. May God continue to bless you, even as you continue to nurture this relationship you have built over the years.”
In a homily, Rev. Fr. Paul Ebezeme said thanksgiving was one of the ways to reap more blessings from God and advised Engr Edafioghor to use the remaining days of his life for more selfless service to God and humanity.
Fr Ebezeme said the first Sunday of Lent was a time to fast, alms- giving and charity work and reminded Christians of the need to keep living in line with the injunctions of Almighty God.
He said just as Jesus was tempted by the devil, believers should stand firm when temptation comes their way so as not to lose the blessings that follow.
The cleric reminded all creatures of the need to have close personal relationship with God in addition to having frequent self retrospection.
The chief celebrant, Engr. Edafioghor, who appreciated God for attaining 60 years and a successful retirement from service, commended Governor Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, for giving him the opportunity to make impact in the works sector.
He pledged to continue to give his best in future endeavours.
