By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Medical workers in State House Clinic, Abuja have been commended by State House Permanent Secretary, Tijjani Umar, who described measures to contain the spread of coronavirus as very strong and solid.
He said since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Nigeria the medical team in the clinic have been in the frontline of implementing public health advice and protocols to prevent the pandemic spreading among workers and visitors.
Umar gave the commendation at a valedictory session in honour of Augustus Ogueri, deputy director, Planning and State House SERVICOM Nodal Officer, who retired on Tuesday having attained the age of 60.
Dr Ibrahim Bashir (head, Public Health Department, State House Clinic) and Dr Chukwu Eze were also recognised for their ‘‘hard work and exemplary contributions to the COVID-19 response in the State House.’’
A statement issued by State House Deputy Director (Information), Attah Esa, quoted Umar as saying that some of the interventions from the team include the local production of medical supplies and equipment such as face masks, face shields, hand sanitisers, hand wash and disinfectants.
‘‘When I briefed the president this week, I told him that COVID-19 response by the State House Clinic is very strong and solid and I also told him of our intention to recognise some staff that have worked round the clock to make this possible,” Umar added.
‘‘They (medical staff) are in charge of organising COVID-19 tests, following up on results, counselling and ensuring that all public health protocols to prevent the spread of the pandemic are followed and they have been very effective in doing that.
‘‘The recognition is a non-monetary award but we appreciate their sacrifices and selfless contributions in delivering excellent services to staff and visitors to the State House.’’
National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer SERVICOM, Nnenna Akajemeli, praised Umar and the management team for their commitment to entrenching the culture of improved service delivery in the State House.
She lauded the ‘‘visible improvement in State House Clinic’’ following a recent performance survey by SERVICOM and urged the State House management team to sustain the recognition and reward of employees and ensure they feel valued for their work.
Both Umar and Akajemeli congratulated Ogueri for his service to the nation.
“I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the indelible mark and professional expertise you displayed in ensuring that State House delivers efficient and timely service to the citizens,” Akajemeli said in a letter she signed.
‘‘As you return to a brighter future, we wish you a very good health of mind and body, God’s guidance and success in all your future endeavours. May your latter years be greater than the former.”
