BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU/PRINCE EJAKPOMEVI
THE Delta State Hospital Management Board (HMB), yesterday, hosted a retirement ceremony in honour of 21 recently retired staff, celebrating their years of dedicated and impactful service to the state’s healthcare system.
The event, held at the State Secretariat, brought together the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs. Philomena Okeowo, management of HMB, healthcare professionals and well-wishers, who paid glowing tributes to the retirees for their commitment, professionalism and invaluable contributions to healthcare delivery across Delta State. Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Delta State Hospital Management Board, Dr. Paul Oweh, commended the retirees for their dedication and professionalism, noting that their sacrifices significantly contributed to the growth and stability of hospitals across the state.
“Today, we celebrate your years of sacrifice and service. Many of your colleagues are either late or incapacitated, but you completed your years of service and retired honourably without blemish. On behalf of the Board, we say thank you,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Hospital Management Board (HMB), Dr. Paul Okubor, described the retirees as pillars of the system who helped to build, sustain, strengthen, and improve the Board over the years.
“Our retirees are not just staff; they are pillars of our system. Many of you worked at a time when there were no basic facilities such as air conditioners in offices, and when salaries were low, delayed, or unpaid for months. Yet, you remained committed and gave your very best. You also mentored younger officers to ensure the smooth running of the Hospital Management Board”, he said.
Dr. Okubor urged staff still in active service to learn from the retirees, stressing that their lives exemplify patience, diligence, and dedication. He noted that public service is not merely a job but a calling that must be carried out with responsibility and accountability.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Delta State Council, Comrade Goodluck Ofoburuku commended the Permanent Secretary of HMB, Dr. Paul Okubor for the ongoing transformation within the Board, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment is evident.
Ofoburuku also congratulated the retirees, describing their years of dedicated service as glorious. He urged them to see retirement as a blessing rather than a curse, expressing optimism that they would enjoy good health and reap the fruits of their labour.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards and gift items to the retirees by the permanent secretary in recognition of their meritorious service.
The ceremony not only marked the conclusion of distinguished careers but also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to recognising excellence, loyalty, and long service within Delta State’s healthcare workforce.
Those honoured at the ceremony included Mrs. Eyagbe Mary, Mrs. KakaedeOnome, Mrs. Onosode Evelyn, Mrs. Olojo Helen, Mr. Odigwe Vincent, Mr. Iroba Clement, Mr. Aggreh Gilbert, Mrs. IkediEzeaku Gloria, Mrs. Arebokefe Fun-Gere, Mrs. Nwako Adline, Mr. Odiatu Anthony, Mr. Oritseje Johnson, Mr. Enebuse Charles, Mrs. Abiodun Patience, Mrs. Isebor Maltida, Mr. Usiagwu Anthony, Mrs. Aghobo Christiana, Mr. Isiekwene John, Mr. Asiemare Samuel, Mr. Ojero Meeting, and Mr. Okoro Alfred.
