By Remi Johnson
After 35 years of distinguished public service, the pioneer Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Health Services and Environment Secretariat (FCT-HSES), Dr. Babagana Adam, has formally retired, drawing tributes from colleagues and stakeholders who described his career as impactful and exemplary.
The send-off ceremony, held in Abuja brought together top officials of the FCT Administration, family members, and associates who gathered to honour a man widely acknowledged for his discipline, commitment, and administrative excellence.
Leading the tributes, the FCT Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Nancy Sabanthi Nathan, congratulated Dr. Adam on what she described as a rare and commendable exit from service.
She recalled their professional collaboration dating back to 2007 when both served on a committee tasked with developing strategies to strengthen the FCT Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy.
She noted that Dr. Adam distinguished himself throughout his career as a principled and result-driven administrator who rose through the ranks on merit, adding that his contributions including being among those who pioneered paperless operations in the Economic Planning and Revenue Generation Department set him apart.
The Mandate Secretary of FCT-HSES, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, offered a candid reflection on his personality, describing him as a man “who is grossly misunderstood due to his highly disciplined and strict nature of getting things done the right way for positive outcomes”.
She emphasized his unwavering dedication to duty and willingness to step in during demanding periods, noting that his support and commitment helped sustain the pace of work within the Secretariat.
According to a citation read by the Director of Legal Drafting in the FCT Legal Secretariat, Barr. Ismaila Ahmed, Dr. Adam joined the FCT Administration in 2002 following a transfer of service from the Borno State Government. Over the years, he served in several strategic departments, including Parks and Recreation, Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), and Economic Planning, Research and Statistics. Prior to his elevation as Permanent Secretary, he served as Director of the Department of Outdoor Advertising and Signage (DOAS).
Speaking on behalf of the FCT Body of Permanent Secretaries, the Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat, Olubunmi Olowokere, described Dr. Adam as a versatile administrator who excelled across diverse roles, mentored many officers, and contributed significantly to institutional development.
Also, representing the Forum of FCT Hospitals Medical Directors, the Medical Director of Maitama District Hospital, Dr. Rita Idemudia, described him as a trailblazer whose contributions to the FCT health sector, particularly within a short period as pioneer Permanent Secretary of HSES, remain commendable.
In his response, Dr Babagana Adam expressed gratitude to the FCT Administration for the honour accorded him, noting that the outpouring of goodwill made his exit from service deeply fulfilling.
He appreciated the Mandate Secretary for her leadership, his colleagues for their cooperation, and his family for their steadfast support throughout his career.
The ceremony ended on a reflective note, with many attendees acknowledging that while Dr. Adam’s retirement marks the close of a remarkable chapter in public service, his legacy of discipline, excellence, and mentorship will continue to resonate within the system for years to come.