As HOS Perm Sec, Ojeblenu bows out of service

The Delta State Government yesterday reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging the expertise of its brightest minds by engaging them in meaningful roles, even after they retired from active service.

The Head of Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko, revealed this during an interview with The Pointer at the Thanksgiving Mass held to celebrate the retirement of the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Head of Service, Mr Patrick Ojeblenu.

According to the Head of Service, ‘’Given the period that I have been in service, several retired permanent secretaries got appointments on the political landscape based on the level of experience they had while in service.

‘’While my office has been collaborating deeply with the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in areas of mentorship, and capacity-building and in other ways that we can tap from their experience.

‘’In a nutshell, I do not think they would be just let go like that. As long as they are still active and still have something to offer, the state government will find them useful in one area or the other’’ Bayoko said, even as he hinted at his retirement in the next two months.

Addressing journalists, Mr Ojeblenu recalled his journey through service which began 32 years ago, stressing that he rose through the rungs to reach the peak of his career by the grace of God and by dint of hard work.

Mr Ojeblenu, who was appointed as Permanent Secretary in November 2022, advised civil servants to work hard, be humble and open to learning, adding that they should also be prayerful.

He said he is disposed to contribute to the continued development of the state if given the opportunity, even as he described his retirement as a transition from one phase of life to another.

During the Mass held at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, Asaba, Rev Fr Benedict Okonkwo challenged Christians to be more profound in their acts of thanksgiving to God for his mercies and benevolence.

Among those present at the Thanksgiving Mass were the member representing Ndokwa West constituency, Hon Charles Emetulu; the Chairman of the Delta State Civil Service Commission, Dame Rose Amioku; Permanent Secretary (Ministry of Environment), Dr (Mrs) Minnie Oseji; and former Head of Service, Sir Okey Ofili.

Earlier, permanent secretaries appointed in 2022 (Class 22) held a valedictory session in honour of their colleagues; Mr Ojeblenu and Pharm Ifeoma Ndobu who recently retired from active service. 

Their message presented by the Permanent Secretary of Civil Service Commission, Mr Fred Yoro reads: ‘’You have worked so hard to earn this milestone; may this new journey refresh and strengthen you. May your retirement be the key that unlocks the door to new opportunities and God’s blessings’’