In a heartfelt and well-attended send-forth ceremony held in Asaba, Delta State, the Ministry of Information honored the retiring Functioning Permanent Secretary, Mr. Harold Ojji, for his exemplary 33 years of dedicated service to the state. The event, marked by glowing tributes and reflections on his contributions, highlighted Ojji's role as a stabilizing force in public information management and civil service administration.
Leading the accolades was Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who described Ojji as an "unyielding pillar of integrity, sagacity, professionalism, wisdom, and selfless service." Aniagwu's tribute was deeply personal, tracing their professional relationship back to the administration of former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, when Aniagwu served as a media consultant to the state government.
"The encounter was divinely orchestrated," Aniagwu recalled, noting how their paths deepened in 2015 when he joined the government and Ojji was the Public Relations Officer at Government House. They collaborated harmoniously, building a foundation of mutual trust that endured.
Upon his appointment as Commissioner, Aniagwu initiated reforms to bolster the Ministry of Information's capacity. A key decision was redeploying senior officers at Grade Level 16 back to the ministry to leverage their expertise. This included bringing Ojji on board as a director—a move that faced initial resistance and petitions but was grounded in civil service rules and Aniagwu's conviction in Ojji's qualities.
"I was already convinced that Mr. Harold Ojji possessed uncommon wisdom, patience, emotional intelligence, and an extraordinary capacity for teamwork," Aniagwu stated. "Those were qualities the ministry and the civil service desperately needed." He portrayed Ojji as an epitome of wisdom, a keen listener, firm administrator, and a calming presence in the state's information ecosystem.
Aniagwu emphasized that Ojji's retirement from active service does not end his influence. "His abilities, experience, and wisdom are far from retiring. His services will still be needed to mentor and guide officers, especially the recently redeployed ones, to greater heights." He urged civil servants to embrace redeployments as opportunities for growth, stepping out of comfort zones to prepare for higher responsibilities.
The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Godspower Asiuwhu, Chairman of the Delta State Taskforce on Environment, echoed these sentiments, calling Ojji a "consummate professional, mentor, and compassionate public servant" whose life exemplified dedication and humanity.
Other dignitaries, including retired Permanent Secretaries Dr. Andrew Akanigha and Sir Austin Mowah, Mr. Austin Igbine (Chairman, Pointer Newspapers Board), and the incoming Functioning Permanent Secretary Mrs. Stella Macaulay, praised Ojji's discipline, fairness, and profound grasp of public service as a sacred trust. They viewed the event not as a goodbye but a celebration of selfless contributions, particularly in stabilizing the ministry during turbulent times and advancing ethical communication.
In his response, a visibly moved Mr. Harold Ojji thanked Aniagwu, the ministry's management, and staff for their support over three decades. "Retirement will not sever my bond with this ministry," he assured, pledging availability for mentoring younger officers.
The ceremony's highlight was the presentation of gifts to Ojji, symbolizing appreciation for his legacy.
Attendees included high-profile figures such as Executive Assistants to the Governor on Media Mr. Felix Ofou and Dr. Nelson Egware; Senior Special Assistant on Media Sir Fidelis Egugbo; Functioning Permanent Secretary (Establishment) Mr. Kingsley Olomukoro; General Managers of Delta Broadcasting Service (Asaba) Mrs. Kristine Emetulu, DBS Warri Mr. Malcom Oteri, and Pointer Newspaper Mrs. Rosemary Nwaebuni; directors, and other stakeholders.
This send-forth follows a transition ceremony in late December 2025, where Mrs. Macaulay assumed office. Ojji's career spanned private sector experience and key roles in government communication, leaving an indelible mark on Delta State's public service.
The event underscores the value of institutional knowledge in Nigeria's civil service, where seasoned officers like Ojji serve as bridges between administrations. As Delta State continues its development under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, tributes like these reinforce commitment to professionalism and mentorship.
Ojji's retirement celebrates a career defined by quiet excellence, reminding all that true public service transcends titles—it's about impact, integrity, and inspiring the next generation.
