The ceremony, held in Asaba, served as a fitting farewell to a distinguished administrator and engineer who had risen through the ranks to become Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works (Highways and Urban Roads). Commissioner Izeze, sharing his message via his verified Facebook page, described Engr. Dr. Aboloje as an outstanding professional whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the ministry and the broader engineering landscape in Delta State.
He portrayed her as a paragon of integrity, intellectual prowess, and administrative brilliance. Under her stewardship, the ministry achieved notable progress in the planning, execution, and delivery of critical infrastructure projects that have enhanced connectivity, boosted economic activities, and improved the quality of life for residents across urban and rural areas. Her leadership was characterized by a strong emphasis on professionalism, accountability, and excellence—qualities that earned her widespread admiration and respect from peers, subordinates, and superiors alike.
Commissioner Izeze highlighted Engr. Dr. Aboloje's uncommon dedication to duty, her mentorship of younger engineers and civil servants, and her unwavering commitment to ethical standards in public service. "She distinguished herself through professionalism, mentorship, and dedication," he noted, adding that these attributes have fostered a culture of competence and integrity within the ministry. He praised her personal demeanor as dynamic, principled, and graceful, qualities that made her not only an effective leader but also a role model for many in the profession.
Looking ahead, the commissioner wished her a retirement filled with continued fulfillment, good health, peace, and divine guidance as she embarks on this new phase of life. "May God grant you grace for greater exploits in your post-service endeavors," he prayed, expressing confidence that her legacy would continue to inspire ongoing and future generations in the civil service and engineering fields.
Engr. Dr. (Mrs.) Juliet Aboloje's career trajectory reflects a remarkable journey of excellence and service. A trained civil engineer with a doctoral qualification, she previously served in key roles, including as Director of Highways in the Ministry of Works before her elevation to Permanent Secretary. Her appointment as Permanent Secretary was announced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in late 2025, alongside other competent appointees, as part of efforts to strengthen administrative capacity in line with the state's MORE Agenda—focusing on meaningful development, opportunities, rule of law, and employment generation.
During her tenure, Engr. Dr. Aboloje worked closely with Commissioner Izeze and other top officials to advance the ministry's goals. This included emphasizing capacity building, adherence to project specifications, and the delivery of durable, high-quality road infrastructure. Recent activities in the ministry, such as strategic meetings for the 2026 fiscal year, holistic reviews of performance, and inspections of ongoing projects, underscored her role in promoting professionalism and efficiency. Her leadership contributed to initiatives aimed at ensuring value for money, sustainable development, and responsive governance in addressing public infrastructure needs.
The retirement ceremony was not just a personal milestone but also a recognition of the vital contributions women make in leadership positions within Nigeria's public sector. Engr. Dr. Aboloje's success story—balancing technical expertise, administrative acumen, and family life—has been celebrated in various quarters. Notably, she and her husband, Dr. Ese Aboloje, were conferred with chieftaincy titles in January 2026 by their community in Obior, Aniocha North Local Government Area, during a grand reception organized in honour of her appointment as Permanent Secretary. This traditional recognition further highlighted the esteem in which she is held beyond her professional circles.
Colleagues from the engineering family described her as a mentor par excellence who invested time in grooming upcoming talents, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaboration. Her approach to leadership emphasized teamwork, innovation, and strict compliance with engineering standards—principles that have helped elevate the ministry's reputation for delivering impactful projects under the Oborevwori administration.
The Head of Service of Delta State, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, also joined in congratulating Engr. Dr. Aboloje on her well-deserved retirement, acknowledging her 28 years (and more) of meritorious service and thanking God for a successful tenure. Such endorsements from high quarters affirm the depth of respect she commands.
As Engr. Dr. Juliet Aboloje steps into retirement, her exit coincides with a period of renewed focus on infrastructure in Delta State. The ministry continues to prioritize durable roads, urban development, and capacity enhancement under Commissioner Izeze's guidance. Her departure creates space for fresh leadership while her footprints remain evident in the policies, projects, and personnel she influenced.
The pull-out parade and tributes serve as a powerful reminder of the value of long-term commitment in public service. In an era where dedication is sometimes undervalued, Engr. Dr. Aboloje's career exemplifies how integrity, hard work, and mentorship can yield lasting results. Her story inspires not only engineers and civil servants but also anyone aspiring to make a meaningful difference through public office.
Commissioner Izeze's public commendation reflects the Oborevwori administration's appreciation for selfless service and sets a tone of gratitude for those retiring after contributing significantly to state development. As Engr. Dr. Aboloje begins this well-earned rest, the engineering and administrative community in Delta State bids her farewell with profound respect, wishing her joy, health, and new opportunities in whatever pursuits she chooses next.
