Edun Salutes Jafiya’s 35-Year Service, Tasks New Finance Perm Sec on Continuity

Edun Salutes Jafiya’s 35-Year Service, Tasks New Finance Perm Sec on Continuity

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has praised the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Finance, Lydia Shehu Jafiya, for 35 years of meritorious service to the nation, urging her successor to emulate her dedication and work ethic.

Edun spoke on Friday in Abuja at a retirement reception organised in honour of Jafiya, describing her career as one marked by uncommon energy, commitment and wisdom in public service.

“Your capacity to serve is truly amazing, and we appreciate the sacrifices you’ve made,” the minister said, charging the new Permanent Secretary, Raymond Omenka Omachi, to sustain the standards she set. Emphasising the need for smooth transitions, he added: “Government is a continuum.”

The event attracted goodwill messages from a wide range of dignitaries, including executive governors, ministers, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, permanent secretaries, the Accountant-General of the Federation, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of agencies under the Ministry, traditional rulers, directors, and members of Jafiya’s family.

In her response, Jafiya expressed gratitude to the Ministry for the honour and urged staff to maintain professionalism and high standards.

She congratulated Omachi on his appointment, noting their long years of working together and expressing confidence in his ability to succeed.

Earlier, Omachi pledged to build on his predecessor’s legacy to ensure the Ministry continues to deliver on its mandate.

He thanked Jafiya for her service and assured Edun and the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, of his commitment to work closely with them to achieve the Ministry’s objectives.

Jafiya also thanked her family for their support and acknowledged God’s guidance throughout her career.

“I am humbled by the overwhelming show of love and support. I will forever cherish the memories and experiences gained during my time in the civil service,” she said.

As she bows out of the Federal Civil Service, Jafiya leaves behind a legacy of dedication and selfless service, widely acknowledged as a benchmark for future generations of public servants.