• Rewards outstanding staff, retirees
By Abubakar Abraham
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State (SGS), has hosted a vibrant end-of-year party and gift presentation ceremony in recognition of the efforts they have put in.
The ceremony brought together management staff, retirees, best-performing employees, and dignitaries in a celebration of service, dedication, excellence, and camaraderie.
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The event, held in Lokoja, was a perfect platform for honouring retirees and outstanding staff for their invaluable contributions while fostering unity among serving personnel.
Although the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Arike Ayoade, PhD, was away on official duties, she was represented by senior management officials, reflecting her commitment to the welfare of the office even in her absence.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary (Administration), Akoji Ejigbo, PhD, expressed gratitude for the year’s achievements and highlighted the importance of recognising dedicated service and outstanding performance.
The SGS’s speech, delivered on her behalf, emphasised appreciation for the staff’s hard work, the administration’s focus on employee welfare, and the value of rewarding excellence under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
General remarks by staff of the SGS’s office followed, with many sharing reflections on the year’s accomplishments and the supportive environment in the office.
The atmosphere soon shifted to the main event as guests engaged in lively dancing and celebration sessions, with the call for “Dance! Dance!! Dance!!!” echoing through the venue.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of gifts, which honored two key groups. First, gifts were presented to retirees who had previously served in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State.
They were commended for their good works, dedication, and the lasting value they added during their tenure.
In addition, the ceremony recognised excellence by presenting gifts to the best-performing staff across different departments in the SGS’s office.
This special acknowledgment celebrated individuals who demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and results throughout the year, motivating others and aligning with the administration’s drive for a high-performing civil service.
A representative of the retirees and awardees delivered their appreciation message and response speech, expressing profound gratitude for the recognition and gifts received.
In attendance were key members of the management staff, including Akoji Ejigbo, PhD (Permanent Secretary, Administration); Aturu Bartholomew (Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services); Mr. Ephraim Amurawaiye (Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Administrative Duties); Mr. Ajayi Stephen Bamidele (Director of Finance); Dr. Olukayode James Adelaja; and several others.
The ceremony highlighted the inclusive, appreciative, and performance-driven culture within the Kogi State civil service, aligning with Governor Ododo’s vision of a motivated workforce driving progress and development in the state.
The event ended peacefully, leaving attendees with renewed energy, a sense of achievement, and anticipation for another productive year ahead.
