Delta State Governor, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has described the state civil service as a resourceful and viable partner in the actualisation of his administration’s developmental programmes.

Speaking at the Valedictory session and Send-Off ceremony in honour of the retiring Head of Service [HOS], Mr. Patrick Origho organised by the Forum of Administrative Officers Wednesday in Asaba, Senator Okowa, represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Tam Brisibe said that the civil service as the engine room of governance has helped government in the prudent management of its resources and achievement of its developmental programmes.

While appreciating the out-going HOS for his diligence, consistency and unflinching dedication, Governor Okowa said ” Mr. Origho, Delta State owe you a world of gratitude for serving it with all your heart, mind and body, even more significant is the fact that you are retiring with an unblemished record”, adding “We will forever remember your positive attitude to work, discipline, resourcefulness and avuncular disposition.”

The governor called on the retiring HOS to avail the government and younger officers in the service the benefit of his knowledge, skills and experience in public administration when the need arises.

He commended the Administrative Officers Forum for deeming it fit to honour one of their own stressing that “this shows that the work of the HOS was appreciated by his colleagues he has really done well for the service.”

In a brief welcome address, the Chairman of the Administrative Officers Forum, Sir. Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje described the outgoing HOS as an astute civil servant that has improved the knowledge base of the civil service and improved synergy among the Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the service.

Also the Chairman of the Occasion, Sir Paul Evuarherhe, explained that the occasion was an opportunity for stock taking, sharing experiences and learning new ideas on how to improve on the productivity.

Mr Samuel Omekeh, a retired Permanent Secretary, presented a lecture titled “Pubic Service, a Place to serve or be served?” at the occasion

In his response, Mr Origho who will officially bow out of service next week Monday after 34years in the service, thanked Governor Okowa and his predecessor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan for contributing positively to his life and career as a civil servant.

While commending the Administrative Officers Forum for the honour done him, he advised civil servants to always familiarise with the rules and regulations of the service and continue to do their best to deliver efficient service to the state.