In order not to create vacuum, a new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah on Wednesday assumed duties at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
He took over from Alhaji Aliyu Shehu Shinkafi, who retired from the Federal Civil Service on Monday, 22nd July, 2024.
At the official handover ceremony on 24th July 2024, at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in Abuja, Mr. Pheelangwah pledged to foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork, as he emphasized the importance of work ethics and dedication to duties.
According to a statement by the Director Information and Public Relations in the Ministry, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, the incoming Permanent Secretary also reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to prioritizing the welfare and well-being of staff, recognizing their significant contributions to the Ministry’s success.
With profound appreciation, Mr. Pheelangwah thanked President Bola Tinubu, for his deployment to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, as he acknowledged the President's vision and leadership.
He then charged the Ministry’s staff to "embrace a culture of diligence, hard work, and commitment, emphasizing a culture of inclusivity, respect, and communication within the Ministry, promising to value and reward contributions, prioritize capacity building, training, and development to enhance skills and career growth, and collectively make a positive impact on citizens' lives."
He highlighted the Ministry's crucial role in ensuring national health, well-being, and prosperity through the provision of safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, which are fundamental human rights.
Pheelangwah pledged to work closely with the Honourable Minister, Honourable Minister of State, Directors, and the entire staff to ensure universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, especially in underserved communities.
Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, who has served in various Federal Ministries including Solid Minerals, Education, Health, Office of the First Lady, the Cabinet Office, and more, outlined plans "to strengthen institutional capacity and governance in the Water and Sanitation sector through policy reforms, strategic planning, and effective regulations."
In his farewell address, Alhaji Shehu Shinkafi, (Retired), extended heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff of the Ministry and its Agencies, as well as the entire water sector stakeholders, for their unwavering support and collaboration throughout his tenure.
He warmly welcomed his successor, Mr. Pheelangwah, and assured him of the team's unrelenting commitment, expertise, and resourcefulness in advancing the Ministry’s mandate with confidence.
He expressed belief that the new leadership will build upon the solid foundation laid to accelerate progress.
Mrs. Phoebe Nwandu, Director of Special Duties, in her welcome address, congratulated Mr. Richard Pheelangwah on his appointment as Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and wished him success in leveraging his wealth of experience to propel the Ministry forward and achieve greater heights in the water sector.
She also expressed her sincere appreciation to Alhaji Shinkafi, praising his exceptional leadership, tireless commitment, and significant achievements during his tenure, which has left an indelible mark on the Ministry.
Among those who attended the ceremony were Directors, staff members of the Ministry, representatives from the Joint Unions and well-wishers.