The Office of the Deputy Governor of Gombe State has organised a send-off ceremony in honour of Mr. Wilson Jonah Yakubu, an Information Officer and Press Secretary who has served dedicatedly and diligently in the Press Unit of the office.
With mixed feelings, the management and staff gathered to bid him farewell in recognition of his thirty-five years of meritorious service.
The ceremony began with a brief session in the Deputy Governor’s office before culminating in a larger event at the conference hall.
Bidding farewell to the celebrant, the Deputy Governor, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau, congratulated Mr. Wilson Yakubu for finishing strong and healthy, noting that it is always a thing of joy for any worker to retire at the statutory age in sound condition.
He commended Mr. Wilson for his commitment, diligence, and professionalism while discharging his primary responsibilities, describing him as a dependable officer whose contributions have greatly impacted the office.
The Deputy Governor explained that retirement should not be seen as “terminal,” but should be considered as a “shift” from one phase of life to another.
He advised the celebrant, as a seasoned media professional, to explore new opportunities and remain productive.
Quoting Luke 19:13, “Occupy till I come,” Jatau encouraged Mr. Wilson not to be idle, but to continue using his gifts, time, and experience wisely in his retirement.
He also assured him of continued support whenever the need arises and encouraged staff to emulate his discipline and dedication.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Deputy Governor’s office, Mrs. Larai Maigari, praised Mr. Wilson Yakubu’s exemplary conduct, integrity, and humility throughout his years of service.
She emphasised that his sense of responsibility and support for colleagues would be greatly missed and wished him a fulfilling and healthy retirement.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Deputy Governor’s Office, Mr. Jack A. Tasha, who is the immediate head of the retiree, described him as a strong pillar of the media unit in the Deputy Governor’s office.
He noted that retirement does not diminish one’s value, as the wealth of experience acquired over the years remains relevant and can still be channelled into meaningful service.
He encouraged workers not to fear retirement, emphasising that retirement comes with blessings, adding that numerous opportunities exist for those who prepare and take advantage of them, and prayed for open doors for the celebrant.
Also speaking, the Chief Imam of the Deputy Governor’s Office, Mallam Mohammed Musa, congratulated the retiree for his successful years of service and encouraged him to see retirement as only another phase of life. He noted that with trust in God, retirement would be much more glorious than the service years.
He urged him to continue trusting in God and to scout for opportunities while making good use of them for a better tomorrow. He also prayed that those coming behind would also retire in good health and fulfilment.
In his response, Mr. Wilson Jonah Yakubu expressed deep appreciation to the Deputy Governor, management, and staff for the honour accorded him.
Wilson Yakubu further noted that he had learned valuable life lessons during the period of his service under Dr. Manassah Jatau, which have positively shaped his interactions with people and personal growth.
He revealed that out of his thirty-five years in service, he spent only seven years outside the Deputy Governor’s Office, describing the office as his first home due to the long period dedicated to duty.
He also observed that there is a time for everything, and while every beginning has an end, he attributed his successful years in service to the grace of God and used the forum to ask for forgiveness from colleagues for any shortcomings and advised staff to always strive to positively impact the lives of others, while remaining committed to their duties.
The event featured goodwill messages from other management staff and colleagues, some of whom were visibly emotional, as well as the presentation of gifts to the celebrant in appreciation of his dedicated service.
Mr. Wilson Jonah Yakubu officially bows out of active service, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, humility, and excellence.
