BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU / PRINCE EJAKPOMEVI
THE Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme has commended the outgoing Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Philomena Okeowo, as she bows out of service, today.
The commissioner, who was represented by the Director, Medical Services and Training, Dr. Chris Ewgbu, described Dr. Okeowo as a mother figure who remained deeply committed to her duties and the welfare of officers who served under her throughout her career.
Dr Onojaeme, expressed his gratitude to her for the support and commitment she put in during her time in service, praying that she would go higher and live long to continue to support people in their various communities.
Speaking at the event, the Delta State Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Hospital Management Board, Dr. Paul Okubor, expressed profound appreciation for Dr. Okeowo’s years of dedication and sacrifice toward the growth and transformation of the Ministry.
According to her, “Your journey has been one of courage and sacrifice. Among all the medical doctors deployed from the Hospital Management Board, you were one of the easiest to mentor. I encourage you to continue trusting in God’s guidance and wish you success in your retirement.”
Dr. Oseji noted that Dr. Okeowo’s legacy would endure for years to come, emphasizing that retirement does not mark the end of her impact. “This is not the end of your influence on people’s lives. Your retirement season is another opportunity to continue making meaningful contributions wherever you find yourself,” she added.
In his remarks, the celebrant’s husband, Mr. Kunle Okeowo, expressed gratitude for the glowing tributes paid to his wife. He affirmed that the commendations were well deserved, noting that he stood by her during challenging moments and encouraged her perseverance throughout her career.
In her remarks, Dr. Okeowo emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment and its far-reaching impact on public health in Delta State and beyond.
She described her years in service as smooth, productive, and professionally fulfilling, noting that her tenure represented one of the most significant achievements of her career.
Dr. Okeowo appreciated guests in attendance, particularly the Commissioner for Health, for fostering a cordial working relationship that ensured efficiency and effectiveness within the Ministry.
She urged civil servants, whom she described as the backbone of government, to remain steadfast, disciplined, and committed to excellence in the discharge of their duties.
