Mining: FG calls for teamwork at joint end-of-year town hall meeting

From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja

In a bid to strengthen team synergy, performance, and address staff welfare, the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), Dr Mary Ogbe, and the Ministry of Steel Development (MSD), Dr Chris Isokpunwu, have convened a joint end-of-year Town Hall Staff Meeting at the Ministries’ Headquarters in Abuja.

The meeting sought to understand the specific concerns and priorities of the workforce, focusing on addressing issues that can be feasibly resolved within the Ministries’ current financial limitations. This effort reflects the leadership’s dedication to supporting staff welfare and improving workplace conditions, even in the face of budgetary challenges.

Dr Ogbe acknowledged the remarkable achievements in the Ministries realised through staff dedication and urged them to continue striving for excellence, emphasising that diligence attracts divine blessings.

She urged the team to deeply reflect on the words of the Civil Service Anthem, emphasising that its values—integrity, dedication, and patriotism—serve as a guiding light for excellence. By embodying these principles in their daily tasks, she inspired staff to contribute meaningfully towards restoring the dignity and glory of the civil service.

Dr Isokpunwu emphasised the importance of work-life balance, urging employees to prioritise tasks by distinguishing between urgent and important responsibilities. This approach helps reduce stress, improves focus, and enhances both personal well-being and professional efficiency.

The Permanent Secretary also reminded staff of the mandatory Thursday Performance Management System (PMS) assessment sessions, highlighting their importance in evaluating staff performance, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring alignment with the Ministry’s goals.

The event featured a talk on achieving work-life balance, emphasising strategies to manage professional responsibilities without compromising personal well-being.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Joint Negotiation Council, Mr Peter Okafor, appealed for the reintegration of the annual celebration for outgoing staff into next year’s work plan to honour their contributions.

This Town Hall served as a reminder of the Ministries’ commitment to nurturing a motivated workforce, while restoring the pride and dignity of the civil service.