By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The recently retired Director of Highway Construction and Rehabilitation at the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Clement A. Ogbuagu, has called on the Federal Government to ensure the timely release of adequate funding for the road sector, describing road infrastructure as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth and national development.
Ogbuagu made the appeal on Thursday during his valedictory ceremony following his retirement from the Federal Civil Service.
He stressed that sustained investment in road infrastructure is essential to boosting economic activities and improving the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“That is why I want to appeal to the Federal Government to pay more attention to the road sector. The road sector is what grows the GDP of any nation. Without good roads, everything goes down. It is through roads that we can achieve so much in terms of economic development,” he said.
Reflecting on his career, Ogbuagu expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the opportunity to serve, noting that his years in public service gave him the privilege of working with people from every part of the country.
“The service has enabled me to impact many lives. Serving at the federal level exposed me to Nigerians from every region. Today, I can proudly say I am a full-fledged Nigerian because there is hardly any tribe or region I did not encounter during my years in service,” he said.
He also commended the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for introducing innovative technologies and modern construction methods into the nation’s road infrastructure.
“I thank God for our present Honourable Minister of Works, David Umahi, who has brought significant innovations and new technologies into the road sector. You can see that many of our highways are now being constructed with concrete pavement, which has greatly improved the quality and durability of roads in Nigeria,” he added.
The retired director urged civil servants, particularly his former colleagues, to uphold the core values of integrity, diligence and professionalism throughout their careers.
“Always uphold the rules, regulations and ethics of the Federal Civil Service so that you can retire with honour, just as I am doing today. Be diligent in your work and ensure your performance is beyond reproach so that even after retirement, you will not be called back to answer for any shortcomings,” he advised.
He further applauded ongoing reforms in the Federal Civil Service, especially the transition to digital processes, while calling for sustained support and adequate funding for the reforms.
“The future of the Civil Service is bright. We have embraced digital transformation, and very soon we will no longer rely on paper files. I urge government to continue supporting and adequately funding the ongoing reforms so that civil servants can enjoy the full benefits of these initiatives,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, described Ogbuagu as a dedicated and hardworking professional whose contributions to the ministry and the country’s road sector would remain enduring.
He praised the retired director’s exceptional work ethic, commitment and ability to excel under demanding conditions.
“The ministry is saddened by his retirement because he leaves behind very big shoes to fill. He is an accomplished professional, a dependable colleague and a successful public servant whose legacy will continue to inspire others,” the minister said.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan, said Ogbuagu’s career exemplified the true essence of public service, noting that he remained steadfast through both challenging and rewarding periods.
“Public service is not only about the good times when everything is going well. It is equally about navigating difficult moments with dedication and resilience. Throughout his career, he showed us the importance of commitment by faithfully carrying out every responsibility entrusted to him,” Adeladan said.
He described the retired director as a patriot, mentor, teacher, problem solver and peacemaker whose contributions significantly strengthened the Ministry of Works and inspired younger officers.
“He taught us not only how to begin well but also how to finish well. Today, we celebrate a distinguished public servant whose life and career remain worthy of emulation,” he added.
