Nkom Celebrates Retirees, Commends Their Legacy of Service at Mining Cadastre Office

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Director General of the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, on Wednesday, honoured six retiring staff members and a former Director of Finance and Accounts (DFA) during a ceremony held at the MCO Conference Room in Abuja. The event recognized their years of dedicated service and outstanding contributions to the agency’s growth and efficiency.

In his address, Nkom expressed profound gratitude to the retirees, highlighting their unwavering commitment to professionalism, proactiveness, and excellence. “Their efforts have not only advanced the mandate of the MCO but have also helped in promoting a culture of integrity and service delivery that we are proud of today,” he said.

A statement signed by Head Press, MCO Mrs. Okeke G. Amara emphasized that although they have officially retired, their influence continues within the agency. “You are still part of the MCO family. We will continue to rely on your wealth of experience and wisdom when the need arises,” Nkom stated, adding that their legacies remain a blueprint for future generations.

Engr. Frank Odo, a close friend of the agency who was present at the ceremony, also extended his well wishes to the retirees. He drew spiritual inspiration from a quote attributed to the late Pope Francis, stating, “Death is not everything; after death there is something.” He likened retirement to a new beginning, reminding the honorees that even beyond their official duties, there remains a space for impact and purpose.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Mr Abraham Oloruntoba expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Director General and staff of MCO for the honour bestowed upon them. “We are deeply grateful for the kindness, encouragement, and support received over the years. It’s a privilege to have served this institution under such leadership,” he said. He encouraged current staff to remain diligent and focused in their duties, stressing that dedication will always be recognized.

In a separate remark, Mr Jacob Ayinsola Femi, who formerly served as the DFA of MCO and now holds the same position at the Ministry of Works, thanked the DG for his support throughout his career, particularly during critical moments such as promotion exams. “Your guidance made a lasting difference, and I’m grateful,” he said. He commended the retirees for their steadfastness and reminded them that retirement does not signal the end of relevance, especially in their roles within their families and communities.

Members of the MCO management team took turns to commend the retirees, noting that their integrity and discipline shaped a culture of professionalism within the agency. They encouraged the honorees to remain close to their faith and continue upholding the values they championed during their tenure.

The event concluded with the presentation of Certificates and Plaques of Integrity in Service, witnessed by family members, friends, and well-wishers. The celebration was marked by gift presentations, photographs, and a warm atmosphere of appreciation and reflection.

The MCO reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the standards set by the retirees and leveraging their legacy to drive continuous institutional improvement.