The Ministries of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) and Steel Development (MSD) recently convened a joint Town Hall Staff Meeting at their headquarters in Abuja to strengthen team performance, enhance collaboration, and address staff welfare. The event also underscored the importance of solid minerals in driving Nigeria’s economic development while focusing on practical strategies to resolve staff concerns and improve workplace conditions within the constraints of the Ministries’ current financial limitations.
Dr. Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, highlighted the Ministries’ successes and credited staff dedication for the remarkable achievements recorded during the year. She emphasised that the importance of solid minerals extends beyond economic benefits, as it also plays a vital role in fostering national growth and development. Dr. Ogbe urged employees to maintain their commitment to excellence, assuring them that their efforts were pivotal to the Ministries’ continued progress.
Dr. Ogbe called on staff to reflect deeply on the Civil Service Anthem, stressing the importance of its core values—integrity, dedication, and patriotism. She described these principles as a compass guiding civil servants toward excellence and encouraged employees to integrate them into their daily responsibilities. By doing so, she believes the civil service will regain its dignity and purpose while promoting the efficient management of Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.
In her address, Dr. Ogbe reminded attendees of the weekly Thursday Performance Management System (PMS) assessment sessions. These evaluations, she explained, are designed to measure employee contributions, identify areas for improvement, and ensure alignment with the overarching goals of the Ministries. The sessions, she noted, play a critical role in enhancing efficiency and accountability, particularly in managing solid mineral assets to achieve sustainable development.
The meeting also included a special talk on achieving work-life balance. Experts shared strategies to help employees manage professional responsibilities while maintaining personal well-being, ensuring they remain productive and motivated in the long term.
Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Steel Development, echoed Dr. Ogbe’s sentiments, applauding the workforce’s dedication and resilience. He called for renewed collaboration among staff, encouraging everyone to take ownership of their roles in advancing the Ministries’ objectives. Dr. Isokpunwu highlighted the importance of solid minerals in bolstering Nigeria’s economy and reaffirmed the Ministries’ commitment to creating an environment where employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Town Hall provided an open platform for staff to voice concerns, share feedback, and propose solutions to challenges they face in their work environments. Employees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with leadership and welcomed the constructive dialogue aimed at addressing their needs.
During the event, Mr. Peter Okafor, Chairman of the Joint Negotiation Council, made a case for reinstating the annual celebration for outgoing staff. He argued that such events recognise and honour employees’ contributions, boosting morale and fostering a culture of appreciation. He urged the Ministries to incorporate this tradition into their plans for the coming year.
The Ministries’ leadership responded positively to the suggestion, acknowledging the importance of recognising staff efforts and ensuring they feel valued. This commitment, they noted, aligns with their broader goal of building a motivated and cohesive workforce.
Despite budgetary constraints, the Ministries emphasised their dedication to staff welfare and workplace improvement. Leadership pledged to explore creative solutions to enhance employee satisfaction and performance, ensuring that the Ministries remain a model of effective governance.
The Town Hall also served as a platform to review the year’s achievements and set priorities for the future. Dr. Ogbe and Dr. Isokpunwu highlighted the significance of solid minerals in supporting industrial growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. They called on staff to approach the coming year with renewed enthusiasm and determination to maximise the sector’s potential.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, the Ministries outlined plans to enhance professional development opportunities for employees. They emphasised the need for ongoing training, mentorship, and skills acquisition to equip staff with the tools they need to excel in their roles.
As the event concluded, both Permanent Secretaries expressed gratitude to the workforce for their contributions and pledged continued support for initiatives that prioritise staff welfare. They reiterated their commitment to fostering a work culture that values excellence, integrity, and dedication, while ensuring that the importance of solid minerals remains central to national development strategies.
The Town Hall Meeting reinforced the Ministries’ commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. By addressing staff concerns, promoting a culture of accountability and collaboration, and highlighting the importance of solid minerals, the Ministries aim to set a standard for excellence in public service while restoring pride and dignity to the civil service.
