The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, witnessed an emotional and symbolic transition of leadership as the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, delivered her farewell speech while formally handing over to the incoming Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye.
In her speech, Dr. Keshinro expressed profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi, describing her as a leader whose cooperation and support made their joint stewardship impactful.
“I want to thank the Honourable Minister, Hon. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, whose cooperation I have enjoyed since I came here. Together, we steered this Ministry forward,” she said.
Dr. Keshinro described her tenure as “one of the highest honours of my public service career.” She noted that the collective achievements of the Ministry were made possible through teamwork, dedication, and unwavering professionalism across all departments.
“Your support, professionalism, and commitment have been the backbone of our achievements. The passion with which you executed your tasks has remained the Ministry’s greatest strength,” she said.
Dr Keshinro urged the entire workforce to extend full cooperation and synergy to the incoming Permanent Secretary, emphasizing that leadership thrives where teamwork is embraced.
“Let the transition be smooth, let the atmosphere remain warm, and let her find joy and fulfilment as she steps into this vital role,” she appealed.
She further advised staff to uphold discipline, respect, and professionalism in their duties, stressing that every role—no matter how small—contributes significantly to the Ministry’s national mission.
In her remarks, the incoming Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the Ministry’s mandate, particularly in safeguarding the nation’s most vulnerable groups.
“I am coming to ensure that the vulnerable are well taken care of in this Ministry,” she stated.
She underscored the importance of time management, urging staff to be conscious that meaningful impact requires intentional use of time and personal development.
Highlighting the Head of Service’s directive on digital transformation, Mrs. Asanye reiterated the need for staff to embrace digital skills.
“Time is of essence. For anyone to make impact, you must use your time well. The call for Ministries to go paperless is a priority, and everyone must skill up and develop themselves professionally,” she added.
She commended the staff for their large turnout at the ceremony and encouraged unity in the workplace.
“Do not be selective in clapping for one another. See yourselves as one family in this Ministry,” she advised.
In a vote of thanks delivered by the Director of Legal Services, Ms. Sweet Okundanye, she described the event as an honour and a memorable moment in the Ministry’s history.
She expressed the staff’s heartfelt appreciation:
“We will surely miss the outgoing Permanent Secretary, but we also assure the new Permanent Secretary of our full cooperation and readiness to work with her.”
She welcomed Mrs. Asanye to the Ministry, reaffirming the collective commitment of staff toward a productive and harmonious working relationship.
Signed
Ahmed Lawan Danbazau
Head, Press & Public Relations Department
