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Honoring A Legacy Of Excellence: Finance Ministry Bids Farewell To Permanent Secretary Mr Ekanem Udo
The Federal Ministry of Finance has celebrated the remarkable career and dedication of Mr. Okokon Ekanem Udo, Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, as he bows out of the Federal Civil Service, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and commitment to Nigeria’s economic development.
In a heartfelt remarks at the reception held in Abuja in his honour, weekend, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun acknowledged Mr. Udo’s unparalleled contribution to the Ministry, saying: “Okokon’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic development is unparalleled. His expertise, guidance, and leadership have been invaluable to our Ministry. We salute his legacy and wish him a well-deserved rest.”
Also speaking, Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Finance, praised Mr. Udo’s collaborative spirit and contributions to the Ministry’s successes stating, “Okokon has been an exceptional colleague, always willing to lend his expertise and support. His departure leaves a void, but his impact will be felt for years to come.”
A cross-section of Directors of the Ministry also shared heartfelt tributes to the retiring Permanent Secretary, highlighting his mentorship, wisdom, and selfless dedication to duty, “Okokon’s mentorship and wisdom have inspired a generation of public servants. His legacy will continue to inspire us – His selfless dedication to duty has earned him a special place in our hearts. We will miss his wise counsel,” they said.
In his response, Mr. Udo expressed deep gratitude for the kind words and sentiments. “I am honoured to have served this great nation and contributed to the development of our economy. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident that the Ministry will continue to thrive and excel in the years to come,” he said.
The Outgoing Permanent Secretary thanked everyone for their support, collaboration, and friendship throughout his career, saying, “I look forward to a happy and fulfilling retirement, and I’m also excited to explore new opportunities to serve the nation in different capacities. Thank you once again, and may God bless our nation,” he said
Mr. Okokon Ekanem Udo, born on October 19, 1964, at Itak Ikot Obio Ise, Ini Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s financial landscape. His commitment to excellence and public service will be deeply missed.
As Mr. Udo embarks on this new chapter, the Federal Ministry of Finance, wishes him a happy and fulfilling retirement, grateful for his tireless efforts and contributions to the nation’s economic growth and development.
“We celebrate not only his achievements but also the person he is – a true public servant, a leader, and a mentor. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to achieve greater heights,” said the Ministry’s staff
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Ogunlesi backs Tinubu reforms as FIRS chairman Adedeji highlights export-led economy
Joel Ajayi
After a high-level meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Nigerian-born global investor Adebayo Ogunlesi expressed renewed confidence in the country’s economic reforms, indicating potential mega investments across energy, aviation, and port sectors.
He was joined in that optimism by Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who stressed that the reforms were laying the groundwork for an export-driven economy.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Ogunlesi praised the sweeping policy changes under Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of subsidies, tax reforms, and the revival of a refinery already exporting aviation fuel.
“We had an excellent meeting where we discussed how to put Nigeria front and center for international investment. The President was very encouraging, and we shared useful suggestions on driving economic growth,” Ogunlesi said.
Although he declined to reveal specific details, Ogunlesi confirmed that his firm is actively investing in Nigeria and assessing new opportunities.
“Watch this space. Nigeria is not yet the most exciting investment destination, but that’s what we are working on,” he teased.
Pressed on the sectors of interest, Ogunlesi highlighted energy, gas, aviation, ports, and renewables. Drawing on his firm’s experience with LNG projects in Texas and Australia, he noted Nigeria’s massive untapped gas reserves.
On aviation, he acknowledged his reputation as “the guy who bought Gatwick Airport” and signaled interest in similar ventures locally.
He also admitted that one of his companies operates ports in Cotonou and Lomé but none in Nigeria, a point Tinubu reportedly challenged him on.
“He forgave me but said, ‘you have to bring port investment to Nigeria,’” Ogunlesi recounted with a smile.
International investor Hakeem Bello-Osagie, who was also present, underscored the importance of diaspora participation in Nigeria’s growth story.
“When Nigerians at home and abroad invest in Nigeria, it sends a strong signal to the world,” he said, lauding Tinubu’s policies for making the country “investable.”
Echoing the sentiment, FIRS chairman Adedeji described the reforms as the foundation for an export-led economy.
“We’ve done the fundamentals, and now it is time to deliver growth,” he said.
With global players signaling confidence, the momentum for Nigeria’s economic repositioning is gaining ground, setting the stage for transformative investments in key industries.
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