Permanent Secretary advise Civil Servants On Teamwork, Professionalism

The permanent secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Engr. Faruk Yabo, has called on public servants to recommit themselves to efficient and high-quality service delivery as part of efforts to advance Nigeria’s development.

Yabo also called for teamwork, empathy, and professionalism in all interactions with the public.

Speaking in Abuja at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Customer Service Week, with the theme, “Mission: Possible,” Engr. Yabo, who was represented by the director of Human Resource Management, Mrs. Ijeoma Idika, described the celebration as a moment for self-assessment and renewed dedication to citizens’ welfare.

In a statement signed by Kania Maliki Andeyaba, Head of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Yabo emphasized that the success or failure of governance begins with individual responsibility within the civil service.

“Whenever we say Nigeria is not working, we must ask ourselves who makes up Nigeria. Every ministry, department, and agency represents a part of the system — when any of them fails, we all fail,” he stated.

He urged officers to execute their duties promptly and enthusiastically, stressing that excellence is achieved by “doing what is right, at the right time, and with the right attitude.”

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, represented by Mr. Ime Ekrikpo, commended the initiative, noting that the theme challenges civil servants to see possibilities rather than obstacles.

“Our mission is to make service excellence a way of life, not a one-off event — and indeed, it is possible,” he affirmed.

In her goodwill message, Mrs. Lucy M. Zach-Ukoh, representing the Acting National Coordinator of SERVICOM, encouraged staff to remain consistent and collaborative, reminding them that every challenge can be overcome through unity and determination.

“Every problem has a solution. Stay consistent, work together, and turn challenges into opportunities,” she advised.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Mr. Salisu Attah, Acting Director of Reforms at the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, commended the dedication of staff and reaffirmed the ministry’s strong partnership with SERVICOM in promoting efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement in public service delivery.