Management and staff of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health gathered in a cheerful and celebratory atmosphere at the Ministryโs Conference Room to give thanks to God and honour the meritorious retirement of Dr. Etop Antia , former Director of the Public Health Directorate, and Mrs. Patricia Etim, former Director of the Nursing Services Directorate, from the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service.
In his address, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, commended the Permanent Secretary, Directors, and staff members for their hard work and commitment, noting that their collective efforts have significantly enhanced the Ministryโs performance and reputation. He also specially commended the Office Manager, Mr. Emmanuel Okon, for his consistent dedication in ensuring the successful completion of the office complex renovation.
Dr. Ekem John recalled that during his first meeting with staff at the NLC Hall, he had promised to renovate the Ministryโs office complex, particularly the Conference Hall, to make it more spacious and conducive. He noted that this promise has now been fulfilled.
โToday, we are gathered in a renovated and conducive hall because we are committed to creating a better environment that enhances productivity,โ he stated.
He further announced that biometric login would fully commence the following week, and all staff of the Ministry are expected to use their access cards for attendance and security purposes.
The Honourable Commissioner also proposed the introduction of an annual โBest Staff of the Yearโ award, adding that an end-of-year award ceremony would be held to recognise excellence, encourage diligence, and promote a culture of dedication within the Ministry. He emphasized that the success of the health sector depends largely on the devotion and commitment of staff, urging everyone to continue working collaboratively to achieve shared goals.
Dr. Ekem John expressed deep appreciation to the retiring Directors for their meritorious 35 years of service. He commended their humility, dedication, and professionalism, noting that their reputations for hard work and excellence precede them.
He offered prayers for their continued good health, long life, and all-round blessings. On behalf of the management and staff of the Ministry, the Honourable Commissioner presented gifts to the retirees in recognition of their outstanding service.
Dr. Ekem John also announced plans for a weekend staff picnic aimed at promoting relaxation and team bonding. He assured that Ministry buses would be made available to convey staff to the venue, while a working committee was immediately constituted to ensure the success of the event.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet, praised the Honourable Commissioner for his transformative leadership and for improving the overall outlook of the Ministry. He commended his innovative approach, which has translated into significant achievements.
Dr. Essiet also applauded the retirees for their 35 years of active contributions to the successes recorded and encouraged both and other staff of the Ministry to remain dedicated, noting that the improved work environment provides an opportunity for greater efficiency.
Responding on behalf of the retirees, Mrs. Patricia Etim expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Honourable Commissioner for his fatherly support and exemplary leadership. She also thanked the management and staff of the Ministry for their support and kindness throughout their years of service.
A minute of silence was observed in honour of Mr. Uduak Umo Udofia of the Directorate of Public Health, who passed away after a brief illness.
The Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Rosemary Inyangudo, delivered the closing remarks, appreciating the Honourable Commissioner, Permanent Secretary, management, and staff for their collective support, and prayed for continued progress and achievements for the retirees.
Staff members also paid glowing tributes to the retirees, wishing them a fulfilling and rewarding life after service.
