By Victoria Onehi
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Ernest Umakhihe has expressed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to creating an enabling environment that does not only enhance the professional growth of the employees but also nurtures their personal well-being.
Speaking at the Ground Breaking Ceremony of the Staff Housing project in Kabusa, Abuja, recently.
Dr. Umakhihe revealed that the aim was to create a conducive environment for the staff, promote their well-being, job satisfaction, and ultimately enhance their productivity.
He stated that the staff housing project was a testament to that commitment and the feat would not have been contemplated but for the Green Peak Shelters, the project partner who submitted themselves to the excruciating bureaucratic process of the Public Service to emerge as best partner in the journey.
In his words, “I therefore wish to state at this point that this project offers a great opportunity for you to establish your company as a brand in the real estate industry and to reinforce our integrity in your choice as a more desirable partner from the pack.
“I am immensely proud to witness the commencement of this Staff Housing project, which is a testament to our unwavering dedication to the growth and development of our Ministry and its prized workforce”, the Permanent Secretary added.
He pointed out that the employees were the backbone of the Ministry, tirelessly working to ensure food security, agricultural sustainability, and prosperity for the nation.
The Permanent Secretary disclosed in a statement that the Ministry was aware of the challenges faced by staff in securing suitable housing, considering the rising costs of real estate and the limited availability of affordable options. It was against this background that, management took it upon itself to prioritize the initiative, pooling resources and partnering with reputable organizations to ensure the successful implementation of the much-needed project.
Speaking further, he pointed out that “as we break ground today, we embark on a journey towards transforming the lives of our dedicated staff, who tirelessly dedicate their skills and expertise to the growth and development of the agriculture sector.
In her remarks, Director Human Resource Management Department and Chairperson, Housing Scheme Committee, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Alade, reiterated that
the momentous occasion to mark the beginning of a remarkable project for the staff housing estate initiative reflects the unwavering commitment of Ministry to not only ensure food security but also the well-being of the dedicated individuals who tirelessly work to support our nation’s agriculture sector.
She pointed out that “as we break ground today, we mark the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of our staff members. We embark on a journey to provide them with comfortable and secure homes, acknowledging their hard work and sacrifices. This project is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s equally about building a sense of community, accomplishment and ownership”.
She therefore looked forward to the day when all staff will gather again, not for groundbreaking but for the ribbon-cutting, to celebrate the completion of the Staff Housing Estate.
In his remarks, the Hakimi of Pigba, Saraji District, His Royal Highness, Emmanuel Gade pledged the support of the Community towards the security of the project from its commencement to completion.
Highlight of the event was the cutting of the ribbon and foundation laying by the Permanent Secretary and some management staff of the Ministry.
