Dr. Emanso Umobong Okop has formally assumed her new role as the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. In her inaugural address, Dr. Umobong expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting her with this significant responsibility and pledged her unwavering commitment to fostering an environment of efficiency, job satisfaction, and growth within the office.
“I am grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this appointment and I am ready to work collaboratively with all the staff at the Cabinet Affairs Office,” Dr. Umobong stated. She emphasized her commitment to providing effective leadership, ensuring a conducive work environment, and establishing a robust reward system. She also solicited the full support and cooperation of her team to achieve these goals.
Dr. Umobong extended her appreciation to the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwa, who has transitioned to the role of Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources. She acknowledged his support, guidance, and leadership during her tenure under his tutelage. “I appreciate the support given to me by Mr. Pheelangwa, which has been invaluable,” she remarked.
Before her appointment as Permanent Secretary, Dr. Umobong served at the State House Medical Centre, where she rose through the ranks to the position of Director. Her distinguished career in public service has prepared her well for this new role.
During the ceremony, Richard Pheelangwa praised the staff of the Cabinet Affairs Office for their dedication and hard work, which he credited for his success during his tenure. He urged them to continue their commitment under the new leadership to ensure Dr. Umobong’s success. “The staff’s immense efforts, commitment, and dedication have been crucial to my accomplishments, and I encourage you to extend the same support to Dr. Umobong,” he said.
Representing the staff of the Cabinet Affairs Office, Mary-rose Ozonweke, Director of Economic & Finance (Cabinet Affairs), expressed confidence in Dr. Umobong’s leadership. She highlighted the depth of her experience in service, which she believes will drive the office to greater heights. Ozonweke assured the new Permanent Secretary of the staff’s “unalloyed loyalty and commitment” to achieving the statutory obligations of the office. She also thanked Richard Pheelangwa for his purposeful leadership and wished him success in his new role.
The event was attended by staff of the Cabinet Affairs Office, senior officials from the Federal Medical Centre, State House, and other well-wishers. The highlight of the occasion was the formal presentation of the handover notes, marking a seamless transition between the outgoing and incoming Permanent Secretaries.
As Dr. Emanso Umobong Okop steps into her new role, the staff and stakeholders of the Cabinet Affairs Office are optimistic that her leadership will herald a new era of growth and efficiency for the office.
