By Victoria Onehi
International Institute for Tropical Agriculture, IITA has praised the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security,Dr Ernest Umakhihe for his contributions to the institute.
To honour him, the institute organised a farewell dinner to appreciate the Permanent Secretary for his immense contributions to IITA.
Speaking during the farewell dinner, the Institute Director, Dr. Simeon Ehui, stated that no Nigerian Government representative on the board of the Institute made the contributions. Dr. Umakhihe made during his tenure. He pointed out that Dr. Umakhihe‘s tenure on the board saw quick resolutions of challenges like financial matters in terms of Nigerian government statutory contributions to IITA.
Responding, Dr. Umakhihe, expressed gratitude to the Management and staff of the Institute for honour done to him.
In a statement by the Ministry,he reiterated his commitment towards improving the livelihood of the good people of Nigeria wherever he found the opportunity to offer his service.
It would be recalled that Dr. Ernest Umakhihe assumed the position of IITA Host Government Representative and member, Board of Trustees by virtue of his appointment as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on the 29th December , 2020.
