Abia Assembly Celebrates 24 Retirees with Grand Farewell, Honours Decades of Service

In a colorful and heartfelt ceremony, the Abia State House of Assembly, in collaboration with the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) and the Staff Welfare Association, hosted a grand send-forth event to honour 24 staff members who retired from legislative service between July 1, 2023, and July 2025.

The event, held within the Assembly complex, paid tribute to the retirees’ years of dedicated service, commitment, and contributions to the growth of the legislative arm of government. It was a vibrant showcase of appreciation and unity, highlighting the vital roles each retiree played in the institutional development of the Abia State Legislature.

The honourees represented various departments, reflecting the diversity of experience and expertise that has supported the Assembly’s functions over the years. Among those celebrated were: Ekeleme Victoria, Ikpe Emmanuel, Ole Orji Igbe, Anyamele O. Victor, Ogbuleke C., Kalu Mercy, Ayim Ebere, Obinwa Anozie, Onwuka Ulu Uguru, Ohaka Uzoma, Onyemachi S. O., and Ofor Obinna.

Also recognised were Okoro Esther, Godson Ubani, Ukpabi P., Kalu Elizabeth, Otumchere Emeka, Nwankwo Florence, Alozie K. I., Kalu Veronica, Alili Onyemachi, Oyowa Goddy, Chiomaobi Nwokeocha, and Blessing Nwagbara—individuals whose names have become synonymous with professionalism and integrity in legislative service.

Commissioner One, Lady Grace Ibe, who represented the Chairman of the Abia State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Uchechukwu Maduako, praised the retirees and described their departure as a dignified and honourable transition. Sharing personal reflections, she encouraged the retirees to embrace retirement with pride and fulfillment.

Sir JohnPedro Nnamdi Irokansi, Ph.D., Clerk and Head of Legislative Service, applauded the retirees for their years of unwavering commitment. He emphasized the importance of recognizing public servants while they are alive, describing retirement as a milestone worth celebrating.

Several goodwill messages were delivered by key stakeholders, including Comrade Chima Anosike, Chairman of the Send-forth Committee; Comrade Sunday Kalu, PASAN Chairman; and Comrade Chukwudi Nwankwo, Chairman of the Staff Welfare Association. Each speaker commended the honourees for their selfless service.

As part of the celebration, the retirees were presented with commemorative gifts and transportation packages, reflecting the Assembly’s appreciation for their contributions.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Mr. Alili Onyemachi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the House leadership, staff, and organisers for the warm and thoughtful gesture, noting that such recognition was rare and deeply appreciated.

The event drew a large turnout of colleagues, family members, and dignitaries, creating a festive and emotional atmosphere that underscored the Assembly’s culture of honouring those who have served with distinction.