6th December, 2010
Emotions flowed last Thursday when the Lagos State Government said goodbye to five permanent secretaries who retired from the civil service after putting in over 30 years service to the state.
The Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Lagos, southwest Nigeria, venue of the Pens-Down Ceremony for the retirees was filled to capacity with civil servants, well wishers and families of the retirees who came to felicitate and wish them well in their future endeavours.
The permanent secretaries are Mrs. Caroline Bello-Aromire, Mr. Adekunle Odubela, Dr. Adetoun Agbe-Davies, Mr. Olusegun Onamuti and Engr. Wasiu Buraimoh.
The retirees were later pulled out in a vehicle out of the secretariat, a ceremony symbolizing that they had exited from the civil service but could still serve the state government in a political office capacity if appointed.
Head of Service, HOS, Mr. Adesegun Ogunlewe praised the retirees for their service to the state
“They enjoyed the good times and also endured the periods of tribulations and frustrations. Based on their exemplary qualities of diligence, devotion to duty and loyalty, among others, they attained the pinnacle of their career,â€Â he said.
Ogunlewe rejoiced with the retirees and their families, saying that whatever they achieved could not have been possible if their immediate constituencies had not shown enough understanding, patience and support.
The HOS admonished those still in the civil service to remain focused, steadfast and committed in rendering selfless service to the citizens of the state, while praying that God would continue to make the retirees wax stronger and be of good health.
Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mr. Lateef Abari said the retirees were being honoured for serving the state meritoriously for over 30 years.
“The five permanent secretaries have been found to be worthy representatives of the state public service having exhibited the tradition of excellence during their active years in service,” he added.
