35 Years of Excellence: David Adokuru reflects memorable journey in Public Service

The Deputy Director in charge of Industrial Relations and Staff Welfare, Mr. David Adokuru, has described working in Central Administration as his most memorable posting as a public servant.

Mr. Adokuru made this remark during a valedictory session held in his office to commemorate his 35 years of meritorious service with the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Adokuru recounted that when he was employed in 1990, one was not regarded as a bona fide staff member until undergoing the process of regularisation and confirmation, which included taking the oath of secrecy.

He began his career in Human Resource Management, formerly known as Central Administration and Department of Establishment, and expressed satisfaction that he was concluding his career in the same department.

Throughout his civil service career, he served in various capacities and departments, spending 14 years in the Training Division.

According to him, “The Training Unit is like being in school and training yourself. All you do is study, research, and write memos.”

He also likened the role of an administrative officer to that of a policeman and a judge, being the custodian of rules and regulations. This, he said, significantly shaped his life and career, as he gained immense knowledge during the period.

Mr. Adokuru revealed that becoming a public servant was in line with God’s will, as he had initially aspired to join the military, coming from a military family.

He expressed gratitude for a successful career and advised upcoming civil servants to be hard-working and eager to learn. While acknowledging the limited financial rewards in public service, he highlighted the other incentives that come with being disciplined, hard-working, and dedicated.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ebele Molokwu, Director of Administration, Legal Secretariat, described Mr. Adokuru as a calm, disciplined, and resourceful staff member. She noted that it was unsurprising that he was leaving service with an impeccable track record.

Mr. Nwabueze Ikechukwu, Assistant Director of the Industrial Relations and Staff Welfare Department, described the outgoing Deputy Director as a brother, friend, father, and mentor to him and others in the department. He remarked, “Mr. David is an exceptional human being, very unassuming and highly principled.” He expressed hope to build on Mr. Adokuru’s legacy and uphold the lessons learnt over the years.

Many staff members, including those from the Department of Mass Education, attended the event to celebrate and honour a man who had excelled in public service.

The highlight of the occasion was the handing-over ceremony, during which Mr. Adokuru officially transferred the paraphernalia of office to Mr. Nwabueze Ikechukwu.

Josie Mudasiru