It was a moment of joy, gratitude and heartfelt celebration on Monday as Deaconess Mrs. Christy I. Kunu bowed out of active public service after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60, marking the milestone on the same day as her birthday.
Deaconess Kunu retired meritoriously as Chief Orientation and Mobilization Officer of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, bringing to a close decades of devoted service to national reorientation, public enlightenment and community mobilization.
Described by colleagues and subordinates as a woman of rare humility and grace, Deaconess Kunu was celebrated for her calm leadership style, unwavering dedication to duty and deep commitment to ethical public service. Her tenure, observers say, was marked by professionalism, inclusiveness and a people-oriented approach that earned her respect across all levels.
Speaking in a tribute, Comrade Enitan Abel Johngold, one of her aides, praised her as “a virtuous woman, a leader with a listening ear, and a mentor whose life reflects God’s unquantifiable grace.”
“She is a minstrel with a difference, industrious, easy-going and deeply respectful of everyone, irrespective of status. Her exemplary conduct has left indelible footprints in the sands of time,” he said.
Johngold noted that Deaconess Kunu’s service record stands as a model for younger officers in the public service, describing her as “a shining example of a well-trained Orientation Officer and a gift to our generation.”
As she steps into retirement, prayers and goodwill poured in for renewed strength, sound health and fulfillment in the next chapter of her life. Many described the occasion as a “retirement birthday with honour,” symbolising the reward of faithful service.
“Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement and happy 60th birthday, Ma. May the years ahead be filled with peace, joy and greater fulfillment,” Johngold added.
Deaconess Christy I. Kunu exits the service not just as a retired officer, but as a respected mother-figure, mentor and role model whose legacy will continue to inspire within and beyond the National Orientation Agency.