Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, in a deeply emotional and reflective ceremony, bid farewell to its outgoing Minister of State, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, honouring a tenure defined by compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service. This was contained in a statement signed by Janet McDickson, Director, Information and Public Relations.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya described Dr. Sununu as a pillar of strength whose leadership significantly advanced humanitarian interventions and strengthened institutional frameworks within the Ministry. He noted that Dr. Sununu combined administrative discipline with a human-centered approach, leaving a lasting impact on both the system and the people it serves.
Goodwill messages poured in from key stakeholders and staff, all reflecting a shared admiration for the outgoing Minister’s leadership and character. The Honourable Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Hon. Tijjani Aliyu commended Dr. Sununu for his visionary leadership, strong collaboration, and unwavering support to sister agencies.
The Director-General, National Senior Citizens Centre, and the representative of the Director-General, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, also praised his inclusive leadership style and commitment to vulnerable groups across the country.
The National Coordinator, NSIPA, Prof. Badamasi Lawal described Dr. Sununu as a dependable leader whose guidance and support strengthened programme implementation and inter-agency cooperation.
In the same vein, a Director in the Ministry noted that “Dr. Sununu’s leadership was defined by openness, sincerity, and a genuine desire to see others succeed.” A middle-level officer from the Social Development Department added that “he created an enabling environment where every staff member felt valued and motivated to contribute meaningfully.”
A junior staff member from the Administrative Unit emotionally expressed that “his humility and fatherly disposition made him approachable to all, regardless of rank.”
In his response, Dr. Sununu, visibly moved, expressed profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary, management, and the entire staff of the Ministry for their unwavering support throughout his tenure. He reflected on his journey in public service, attributing his achievements to faith, humility, and a deep commitment to humanity. He urged staff to remain united, dedicated, and guided by compassion, emphasizing that true leadership is rooted in selfless service and integrity.
The management and staff of the ministry extend its sincere appreciation to Dr. Sununu for his outstanding contributions and wishes him continued success, divine guidance, and greater accomplishments in his future political endeavours.
Those present at the event included the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, who represented the Honourable Minister; the Honourable Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Hon. Tijjani Aliyu; the Director-General, National Senior Citizens Centre; representative of the Director-General, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities; the National Coordinator, NSIPA, Prof. Badamasi Lawal; Directors and Heads of Units of the Ministry; the Chairperson from the Honourable Minister’s Local Government Area in Kebbi State; as well as staff, friends, and well-wishers.
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