PRESS RELEASE
Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present: Petroleum Ministry Applauds Retirees and Top Performers
The Ministry of Petroleum Resources on Wednesday, 4th June, 2025, held a special send-forth ceremony in honour of twenty-five (25) staff members who retired from active service in 2024. The event also recognized exceptional staff for outstanding service delivery and contributions to the oil and gas sector.
In his keynote address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, mni, commended the retirees for their years of dedicated service, describing their contributions as pivotal to the Ministry's progress and Nigeria’s development.
"The Ministry is full of admiration for your selfless contributions, which have not only enhanced our rating among MDAs but also brought about notable milestones in the oil and gas sub-sector," he stated.
He emphasized that while material rewards cannot fully compensate for their sacrifices, retirees should derive satisfaction from the fact they you left the service better than they met it and that they were privileged to be part of the policy and structural reforms which are repositioning the service to global standards, adding that their expertise may still be sought to address future challenges.
The Permanent Secretary also congratulated recipients of the 2025 Ministerial Awards, acknowledging their responsibilities, excellence and professionalism. "This recognition is part of the broader Civil Service reform to restore the dignity of labour. A well-motivated civil servant is indeed the engine of national development," he added.
He reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to providing the necessary enabling environment for excellence to thrive. "I invite you all to work as a team and set high performance standard for self and for the Ministry. The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has left us without a choice but to aim for excellence in achieving the lofty objectives for the Oil and Gas industry"
He noted that "The Ministry of Petroleum Resources is strategically placed to facilitate optimum productivity of the sector and we cannot afford to fail the nation"
He concluded by wishing the retirees well and urging all staff to uphold the values of dedication and integrity.
In an earlier address, the Director Human Resources Management in the ministry, Mrs. Asma'u Shehu Adaji, highlighted the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to appreciating staff contributions through the implementation of the Award and Recognition System. She noted that the initiative has significantly boosted morale, professionalism, and alignment with global best practices.
She commended the support of the Permanent Secretary and the Ministerial Award Committee (MASCO) for making the awards a reality, adding that their teamwork has been instrumental in improving service culture within the Ministry.
Mrs. Adaji also emphasized the importance of mentorship among senior officers to ensure continuity and legacy. In closing, she urged all present to remain committed to national service: “Nigeria is the only country we have; let us do all within our powers to make Nigeria great again.”
The highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates, plagues and gift items to recipients across the different award categories.
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Press and Public Relations Unit.
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