One of the significant contributors to the advancement of digital governance in Edo State, the Permanent Secretary of Information Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), Birgitta Eno Okodugha (FMAN), has retired after 35 years of meritorious service to the State.
The state government hosted the retirement ceremony on August 1st, 2023. The event commenced at the Edo State Government House Chapel.
The entertainment of guests at the ICTA Hall, John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy premises in Benin City, followed the retirement event.
Declaring the ceremony open, the Head of Service (HOS), Anthony Okungbowa Esq., represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services, Office of the Head of Service, Pricilla Aziegbemhin, said that retirement is destiny fulfilled on a journey that has not been rosy in 35 years of service, saying it is because the grace to finish well and strong rested on Okodugha that the glory of her latter years will be greater than those of the former.
On his part, the Managing Director (MD), ICTA, Goodluck Igbinedion, commended her role in advancing E-Governance in Edo State and her world-class administrative skills. The MD said her service to Edo People earned her the prestigious position of Permanent Secretary.
According to him, countless awards bestowed on her testify to her passion and dedication to duty. He noted that her impact on students and professionals she mentored has been profound, and her colleagues recognized her passion for excellence and selflessness.
MD maintained that Okodugha’s passion for excellence remains undeterred, adding that her collaborative effort had led to the victory of Edo State as the 2021 best award winner in E-Government Implementation in Abuja.
He emphasized that the government will continue to seek her professional counsel and motherly guidance, even after her retirement, due to her invaluable track record and dedication.
Attesting to the selflessness and humility of Birgitta Eno Okodugha, the MD said the retiring Permanent Secretary does not hold anything back in the course of her duties and services, explaining that in terms of teaching, correcting, building and enhancing the capacity of other members of staff, she did it with her whole heart.
Narrating her dedication to service, Mrs Okodugha said that the journey started in Ewatto Grammar School 35 years ago, rising through various positions until she became the Permanent Secretary of ICTA.
According to her, God has used many people to help her in the service from one level to the next. She had mentored students, now Doctors, Lawyers, and Rev Fathers, among other professionals. In her words, “The joy and fulfilment are that, anywhere in the world, one is recognized for the seeds sown in people’s lives”.
While appreciating officers who have supported her success story through her career years, Mrs Okodugha also appealed to those still in service to be selfless in performing their duties to humanity and await God’s reward for such contributions.
In his goodwill message, the President of the Mathematical Association of Nigeria, Prof. Kamoru Usman, acknowledged that Okodugha is very prudent and trustworthy at all levels, stating that her role of being in custody and managing the Association’s funds for many years has been a big relief to them. He emphasized that the retiring Permanent Secretary’s membership in the Mathematical Association of Nigeria has greatly recognized the Association.
Various speakers, including Prof. Obehi Okojie, also commended her faithfulness, trustworthiness and contributions to multiple fellowships and associations. Further, They acknowledged recognized and appreciated her prudent funds management and positive impact on these organizations.
The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of numerous awards and gifts to the retiring Permanent Secretary while celebrating her accomplishments and meritorious and dedicated service to the State and humanity.
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