By Chidi Ugwu
A sendforth ceremony was held to honour Dr. Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha, the immediate past Director-General of the National Productivity Centre (NPC), in recognition of his dedicated service to the Centre and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The event celebrated his numerous contributions to improving productivity and national development during his tenure.
According to a statement signed by Amezhi Apia, Director, Media and Special Duties, the
ceremony, which was hosted by the Director-General of the Centre, Dr Baffa Babba Dan’Agundi, took place in the conference room of NPC headquarters. It was attended by key stakeholders, including a former Director-General of NPC, Dr Kashim Yunusa Akor, management staff, other special guests, as well as family and friends of the celebrant. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and respect, reflecting the high esteem in which Dr. Raji-Mustapha is held.
Speakers highlighted Dr. Raji-Mustapha’s visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and tireless efforts that significantly advanced the Centre’s mission. His role as a catalyst for change within the organisation was particularly highlighted.
In his address, Dr. Dan’Agundi expressed thanks to God for the opportunity to fulfil the promise he made about a year ago when he took over from Dr. Raji Mustapha, where he had promised to invite him for a proper Sendforth ceremony.
“Today, Allah has made it possible for me to be with you and other invited guests to celebrate you. I want to sincerely thank you for finding time and accepting this invitation.
“There is nothing more important to me in life than when you leave a place and you are told you have done well, and we are praying for you,” the Director-General remarked.
“I have built on the legacy transferred to me from you and Dr Akor. All the accolades given to me concerning the welfare of staff were laid down by you, “Dr Dan’Agundi added.
Expressing his appreciation to Dr Kashim Akor, Dan’Agundi said: “There is no day I speak with him that he does not advise me on how to move Centre forward.”
While addressing the press, Dr Dan’Agundi noted that lack of proper reward systems hamper productivity.
“Lack of proper reward systems kill productivity. That is why we have introduced a lot of incentives to increase staff performance.
“As long as I remain a Director-General in the Centre, any retiring Head of Department will go home with a car as a parting gift,” the Director-General said.
In his remarks, Dr Kashim Yunusa Akor, who had handed over to Dr Raji-Mustapha, said they had worked together for eight years without blemish.
“He served under me for eight years, and I have never had cause to doubt his integrity.
“Like every father would wish that his son will do better than him, I am happy that Dr. Raji improved on what I did, and the new Director-General is doing even better.
“What we’ve been able to achieve to put National Productivity Centre on the front burner of national discourse has been a collective effort,” Dr Akor stated.
He appreciated the Director-General for honouring the immediate past Director- General and prayed that God would honour him in return. While promising to continue assisting to take the Centre to greater heights, he encouraged Dr. Dan’Agundi to do more in terms of staff welfare so that he would be celebrated by the time he leaves.
Dr Raji-Mustapha expressed his heartfelt appreciation, reaffirming his enduring commitment to Nigeria’s productivity and development even beyond his tenure.
Addressing the Director-General, Dr Raji-Mustapha said:
“I’m proud of what you are doing in the Centre. I’m happy because you are improving on what your predecessors predecessors have started. As productivity consultants, we know that without motivation, there cannot be productivity.
“Motivation is the key to productivity.
There are two things that can improve productivity: Your willingness to do the work and the ability to do the work,” he stated.
He appealed to the Director-General to ensure that the Condition of Service is completed and approved and also see what more can be added to the welfare of NPC Staff.
The high point of the event was the presentation of a car as a parting gift to Dr Raji-Mustapha by the Director-General, Dr Dan’Agundi. Cars were also presented to a recectly retired Director/ HOD, Mrs Rosemary Omoyeme Esekhagbe, and a soon to be retired Director/HOD, Dr (Mrs) Titilola Oshati. Certificates of Service and Awards of Honour were also presented to recent retirees as a token of appreciation and symbols of the Centre’s gratitude.
The sendforth ceremony was a fitting tribute to Dr. Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha’s exemplary service and leadership, inspiring continued dedication among NPC staff and stakeholders in pursuit of national productivity goals.
