By Shulamite Owhoekevbo
The Delta State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, has paid glowing tribute to the Permanent Secretary in the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Angalaere Arthur Prest-Umukoro, who has retired after 34 years of meritorious service, describing her exit as both inspiring and triumphant.
Mrs. Prest-Umukoro, who visited the Head of Service to formally announce her retirement, expressed deep gratitude for the support and encouragement she received during her career, especially in her trying moments. She thanked God for the grace to conclude her journey in the civil service in good health, despite earlier health challenges.
In her remarks, Dr. Oseji praised the retiring Permanent Secretary for her resilience, administrative excellence, and sterling contributions across different ministries. She noted that Mrs. Prest-Umukoro had not only served with distinction as a Director and later as a Permanent Secretary but had also left a legacy of integrity and professionalism.
“I am particularly delighted that you have overcome health challenges to be here today. Your story is one of strength, courage, and commitment to duty,” Dr. Oseji said warmly.
Recalling her journey, Mrs. Prest-Umukoro revealed that she joined the defunct Bendel State Civil Service on October 2, 1990, and was first posted to the Directorate of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Over the years, she served in several key ministries including Transport, Housing, Works, Asaba Airport, Information, Establishments and Pensions, and Health.
She rose to the position of Permanent Secretary in 2016, serving under different Heads of Service, before her substantive appointment on May 5, 2019, which saw her deployed to the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, where she completed her service.
Offering heartfelt advice, she urged civil servants to separate personal interests from official responsibilities, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and always mentor others to sustain excellence in the public service.
The emotional ceremony was attended by members of the College of Permanent Secretaries, including Mr. Maxwell Awuse (Office of the Head of Service), Prince Gregory Ejowhomu (Bureau for Special Duties), Mrs. Felicia Reno-Orugbo (Ministry of Energy), Mr. Michael Diden (Ministry of Trade and Investment), and Mr. Anthony Usenu, Director of Public Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service.