By Odita Sunday
The Federal Ministry of Works has begun a leadership transition following the retirement of its Permanent Secretary, Engr. Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan, with the Director, Finance and Accounts, Alhaji Aminu Ahmed, taking over as Director Overseeing Office of the Permanent Secretary (DOOPS) pending the appointment of a substantive Permanent Secretary.
The transition took place on Thursday, August 27, 2026, during a colourful but emotionally charged handover ceremony at the Ministry, where Adeladan formally handed over the administration of the Ministry to Aminu.
Adeladan’s retirement brings to a close his tenure in the Federal Civil Service, which was marked by what the Ministry described as dedication, professionalism, accessibility and an unwavering commitment to the Service and the nation.
In his farewell address, Adeladan expressed appreciation to the management and staff of the Ministry for their support, cooperation and cordial relationship throughout his tenure.
He said leaving the Ministry was an emotional moment for him, while commending the quality of work, professionalism, teamwork and social interaction among its officers and staff.
The retiring Permanent Secretary said he was particularly grateful that members of staff related with him not only as their Permanent Secretary but also as a partner and colleague, describing the experience as humbling and memorable.
He commended the sincerity, courage, honesty and professionalism displayed by staff, stressing that the ability to speak frankly on issues while remaining committed to doing what is right was an important virtue of the Civil Service.
Adeladan also acknowledged that disagreements and difficult moments were inevitable in any working relationship. He consequently used the occasion to apologise to anyone he might have offended during his tenure and appealed for forgiveness.
He urged the staff to remain committed to the Ministry and the core values of the Service, while sustaining teamwork, professionalism and dedication to duty and the nation.
Adeladan further assured the gathering that his retirement would not end his relationship with the Ministry, promising to remain a dear friend and staunch supporter of the institution.
On the leadership transition, he called on Directors and staff to give the DOOPS the necessary support, cooperation and respect to enable him effectively oversee the affairs of the Ministry until the appointment of a substantive Permanent Secretary.
Responding, Alhaji Aminu Ahmed expressed appreciation to Adeladan for his mentorship, guidance and support, acknowledging the experience and leadership he was inheriting.
Aminu described Adeladan as a brother, mentor and friend, recalling the personal encouragement and support he received from him, particularly during his career progression.
He pledged to continue seeking Adeladan’s guidance and wise counsel during the transition, while working closely with the management and staff to ensure continuity and effective administration of the Ministry.
The DOOPS also called for the support and cooperation of staff throughout his stewardship, stressing that the collective objective remained the effective delivery of the Ministry’s mandate in line with national aspirations.
The Director, Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. David Yiltong, described Adeladan as a successful leader who was able to identify the shortcomings of others, patiently guide them and carry everyone along.
Yiltong congratulated him on his retirement and prayed for long life, good health and abundant blessings for him and his family.
Also speaking, the Director, Human Resource Management, Ahmad Muhammad Tukur, commended Adeladan’s leadership style, accessibility and dedication to duty.
Tukur said Adeladan’s retirement marked the end of an important chapter in his distinguished career in the Federal Civil Service and the beginning of a new phase of life after retirement.
The Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mrs. Emily Osunde, described Adeladan as a disciplined and principled Civil Servant who never scolded or looked down on colleagues, even when addressing lapses or difficult issues.
Osunde praised his courage, sincerity and ability to remain direct and professional, noting that his leadership style had positively impacted many officers within the Ministry, the wider Service and society.
The DPRS prayed for a peaceful, fulfilling and rewarding retirement for Adeladan, saying he deserved to enjoy the fruits of his many years of dedicated service to the nation.
The ceremony ended with prayers and goodwill messages from Directors and staff, who expressed appreciation for Adeladan’s years of service and wished him good health, success and greater fulfilment in retirement.
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