FCTA honours Atang, pioneer FCT Head of Civil Service Commission

By Stanley Onyekwere

It was outpour of encomiums when the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has honoured the pioneer FCT Head of Civil Service, Dr. Udo Atang, as he retired from active civil service.
Recall that Atang became the first Head of FCT Administration’s Civil Service following President Bola Tinubu’s approval and appointment 10 permanent secretaries for the FCTA, in line with the provisions of the Civil Service Commission Law, 2018.
But, as Atang exits the FCTA bureaucracy, the several speakers at the brief send forth ceremony celebrated not just his achievements, but the legacy of leadership he leaves behind in the FCTA.
For the permanent secretary for Youth Development, Mrs Nancy Nathan, praised Atang’s leadership, stressing the remarkable growth and transformation of the FCTA under his guidance.
She further stressed his innovative policies and improved service delivery which have equipped the workforce to tackle governance challenges effectively.
“As we reflect on his journey, we also acknowledge the human side of leadership.
“His mentorship has greatly impacted many of us,” she said, describing Atang as a leader dedicated to excellence and collaboration.
According to her, Atang’s open-door policy, commitment to staff welfare, and emphasis on teamwork for efficient service delivery.
“Today, we pay tribute to a leader whose visionary approach has laid the foundation for effective public service in the FCT.
“ It is indeed a day of mixed emotions as we celebrate his remarkable contributions”, she stated
Also speaking, the permanent secretary of the Department of Common Services, Rotimi Ajayi, praised Atang’s dedication, calling him a source of inspiration and a well of knowledge for his colleagues.
On his part, Atang during a send-off ceremony in honour of him, reflected on the advancements made under the recently approved the implementation of the FCT Civil Service Commission Law by President Bola Tinubu, noting significant progress within the FCTA.
He recalled that before the establishment of the Commission, staff faced numerous career limitations, often encountering frustration as many reached the peak of their careers as directors, leading to low productivity.
He explains: “Previously, our career options were restricted, and the height of our aspirations was often capped at the director level, resulting in dissatisfaction among staff.”
However, Atang stated that the Civil Service Commission Act now provides FCT employees with new opportunities for advancement.
He therefore expressed gratitude to FCT minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike for his proactive measures upon taking office, which resulted in the FCTA appointing 13 permanent secretaries and establishing the office of the Head of the Civil Service.
“I want to sincerely thank the Minister who, within just three weeks of taking office, recognized the challenges we faced concerning career progression and swiftly acted to implement the FCTA Civil Service Commission Act.
“ This has transformed our career paths”, he stressed.
He equally commended the FCTA staff for their excellent performance in their roles, assuring them of his continued support and willingness to guide the future.