The Permanent Secretary of the State House, Mr Temitope Fashedemi, has cautioned staff against bickering and acrimony, warning that such behaviour undermines productivity and professionalism in the public service.
Fashedemi gave the warning at a ceremony held in Abuja to mark the retirement of two top management staff of the State House, Mr Sule Tegina, Director of Finance and Accounts, and Mr Ali Sufiyan, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, State House, Mr Abiodun Oladunjoye, the two officers retired after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60, in line with the Public Service Rules.
The Permanent Secretary stressed that adherence to ethical conduct, diligence and professionalism remained critical to career progression and institutional efficiency.
“Hard work, good conduct and professionalism always bring rewards at the end of the day,” Fashedemi said.
He commended the retirees for their dedication, competence and integrity, noting that their contributions had significantly strengthened operations at the State House.
“They are seasoned administrators whose commitment enhanced efficiency and professionalism in the system,” he said.
Fashedemi urged the retirees to remain active and continue contributing to society and the public service in advisory capacities.
“I enjoyed working with you. Keep your brains active. Do not retire to the village. Stay around and continue to add value,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary also reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, describing it as a priority of his administration.
“Sometimes rewards come unannounced, but to whom much is given, much is expected,” he said.
In his remarks, Tegina expressed gratitude to the State House management and staff for the opportunity to serve, noting that he had enjoyed a harmonious work environment throughout his career.
“I have worked in different places, and I have been fortunate not to work in a toxic environment,” he said.
Similarly, Sufiyan thanked the Permanent Secretary and staff of his department for their support during his years of service.
The event featured the presentation of gifts, as colleagues, family members and well-wishers celebrated the retirees and offered prayers for good health and a fulfilling retirement.