Water Resources: New Perm Sec Pledges To Foster Collaboration, Teamwork

The new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah has pledged to foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork among staff.

Mr. Pheelangwah stated this during his official resumption at the ministry in Abuja.

Pheelangwah while emphasizing the importance of work ethics and dedication to duties reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to prioritizing the welfare and well-being of staff by recognizing their significant contributions to the Ministry’s success.

The new Permanent Secretary who thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his deployment to the Ministry acknowledged the President’s vision and leadership.

He charged he Ministry’s staff to embrace a culture of diligence, hard work, and commitment, emphasizing a culture of inclusivity, respect, and communication within the Ministry.

Pheelangwah promised to value and reward contributions, prioritize capacity building, training, and development to enhance skills and career growth, and collectively make positive impact on citizens’ lives.

Pheelangwah who noted that the Ministry plays crucial role in ensuring national health, well-being, and prosperity through the provision of safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services, which are fundamental human rights, pledged to work closely with both Ministers in the Ministry, Directors, and the entire staff to ensure universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, especially in underserved communities.

Mr. Pheelangwah, who has served in various Federal Ministries including Solid Minerals, Education, Health, Office of the First Lady, the Cabinet Office, and more,  outlined plans to strengthen institutional capacity and governance in the Water and Sanitation sector through policy reforms, strategic planning, and effective regulations.

He took over from Alhaji Aliyu Shehu Shinkafi who retired on Monday,  22nd July, 2024.

In his farewell address, Alhaji Shehu Shinkafi, extended heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff of the Ministry and its Agencies, as well as the entire water sector stakeholders, for their unwavering support and collaboration throughout his tenure.

He assured the new Permanent Secretary of the team’s unrelenting commitment, expertise, and resourcefulness in advancing the Ministry’s mandate with confidence.

He expressed belief that the new leadership will build upon the solid foundation laid in accelerating progress .

in her welcome address, the Director of Special Duties,
Mrs. Phoebe Nwandu, congratulated Mr. Richard Pheelangwah on his appointment as Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and wished him success in leveraging his wealth of experience to propel the Ministry forward and achieve greater heights in the water sector.

She also used the opportunity to express her sincere appreciation to Alhaji Shinkafi, praising his exceptional leadership, tireless commitment, and significant achievements during his tenure, which has left an indelible mark on the Ministry.

Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji