The Deputy Governor of Gombe State Manassah Daniel Jatau on Tuesday called on civil servants in the state to remain committed to their responsibilities and conduct themselves in ways that promote integrity, accountability, and dedication to service.
Dr. Jatau made the call during a retirement send-off ceremony organised in honour of the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Larai Maigari Yari who bowed out of the civil service after 35 years of meritorious service.
The Deputy Governor praised the retiring Permanent Secretary for her outstanding service, commitment, and immense contributions to the growth and development of the civil service.
He noted that retirement is a stage every public servant must eventually attain and urged workers to prepare adequately for life after active service.
According to him, proper planning and prudent management of resources are essential to ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling retirement and further emphasised the importance of establishing cordial relationships and building strong networks while in service, noting that such connections often become valuable after retirement.
Dr. Jatau observed that Mrs. Maigari had positively impacted on many lives through her dedication to duty, mentorship, and commitment to service, contributing significantly to the development of the state and the civil service.
“Please feel free to call on us in the office if there is anything we can do to assist you,” saying that his door will remain open for any advise, “the Deputy Governor said.
He also stressed the need for civil servants to prioritise good health, describing sound health as one of the most valuable assets for enjoying a productive retirement.
The Deputy Governor said, “Retirement is not death, and I am happy you are retiring in good health and good spirit and above all, you already have plans for your retirement, especially your engagement in farming. You will not regret and experience any lack that some retirees do face because you have planned for adjustment long before this day.”
Dr. Jatau further commended the retiring Permanent Secretary for her loyalty, cooperation, and professionalism while serving in the Office of the Deputy Governor, stressing that her wealth of experience contributed immensely to the smooth coordination of government activities and prayed for good health, wisdom, and fulfilment for her in retirement.
He also cited Luke 19:11–27, which charges believers to “occupy their territories until Christ comes,” emphasising the need for productivity, diligence, and fruitfulness in all endeavours.
While wishing the retiree success in her future endeavours, the Deputy Governor challenged civil servants to remain dedicated and committed to the discharge of their official responsibilities.
In her remarks, the retiring Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Larai Maigari, reflected on her career journey, recalling that she joined the civil service in 1991 as a Supervisor of Education on Grade Level 05.
She recounted the challenges, sacrifices, and milestones that marked her career progression and expressed gratitude for rising through the ranks to attain the position of Permanent Secretary, which she described as the peak of a civil service career.
Mrs. Maigari attributed her success and achievements to God’s faithfulness throughout her 35 years of service.
She also expressed appreciation to the administration of Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for the opportunity to serve in that capacity, particularly in the Office of the Deputy Governor, noting that the experience has exposed her to numerous opportunities that enhanced her performance and service delivery.
She pledged her readiness to continue offering support and advice whenever needed and thanked members of staff for their cooperation and support throughout her years in service.
The retiree particularly appreciated her husband, whom she described as her mentor and the backbone of her success in the civil service.
Mrs Maigari urged staff members to remain dedicated, hardworking, and committed to excellence in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the husband of the retiring Permanent Secretary, Mr. Maigari Yari, and their daughter, Ladidi Maigari, thanked God for the successful completion of her service career and prayed that the years ahead would be even more glorious and fulfilling.
Other speakers at the send-off ceremony, including the Staff Officer, Misty Boyi, and the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Jack Tasha, among others, extolled the humility, peaceful disposition, and selflessness of Mrs. Maigari.
They described her as a mother, mentor, and leader whose virtues are worthy of emulation and prayed for more open doors and greater accomplishments in her retirement while encouraging serving officers to imbibe the values of dedication, humility, and selfless service that she exemplified throughout her career.