…As Oliko Bows Out
By Rita Oyiboka
The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu has called on civil servants to approach their jobs with the same dedication and seriousness they attach to their private enterprises.
Aniagwu made this charge, yesterday, during the send-forth ceremony in honour of the outgone functioning Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Information, Mrs Theresa Oliko.
The colourful event, which took place at Jace Darl Hotel in Asaba, drew dignitaries including civil servants, top government functionaries, traditional rulers, representatives of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), among others.
Speaking at the event, Aniagwu underscored the importance of discipline and commitment in public service, warning that the future of the civil service depends on how seriously workers take their responsibilities.
According to him, “In your private business, would you resume at noon when the agreed time is 8 a.m.? If not, then why treat your public office differently? You must begin to see the Ministry, the State, and the Government as your enterprise. That’s the only way to build a meaningful legacy,” he said.
Reflecting on the celebrant’s journey, Aniagwu noted that the ceremony was not just a celebration of retirement, but a moment to honour hard work, integrity, and excellence in public service.
“Not long ago, we celebrated the former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. Today, we honour Mrs Oliko, and tomorrow, it could be any of you. But to reach that height, you must be intentional about everything you do.”
He urged continued communication between serving officers and retirees, emphasising that experience from the past remained valuable in shaping the future. “Her retirement must not mean disconnection. Reach out. Learn. Engage. The State may still call on her to serve in advisory roles, and we must all tap into her wealth of knowledge.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Dr Anthony Nwaokolobia, praised Mrs Oliko’s dedication and resilience.
Also speaking, the new functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr Harold Ojji, described Mrs Oliko as an embodiment of grace and intellect.
Responding, the celebrant, Mrs Theresa Oliko thanked and expressed her profound gratitude to the Ministry, colleagues, and guests.
“I am overwhelmed by the love and honour shown to me today. To my colleagues, especially those still in active service, I say: be intentional, be disciplined, and serve with heart. Let your service to Delta State count,” she said.
The ceremony ended on a high note, with presentations of gifts, entertainment, and goodwill messages that captured the essence of a trailblazer’s career brought to a graceful close.
