FCT EDUCATION SECRETARIAT HONOURS RETIRED OFFICER FOR OVER THREE DECADES OF EXEMPLARY SERVICE

By: Odugbo Sarah

The Administrative Unit of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat has honoured one of its distinguished officers, Mr. Zakari Yiwoye Madaki, with a befitting retirement ceremony in recognition of his more than 30 years of dedicated, loyal and meritorious service to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The event, organised by the Director, Administration, Hajiya Rakiya Ibrahim, brought together directors, heads of units and members of staff to celebrate Mr. Madaki’s outstanding career and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the Education Secretariat.

In her opening remarks, Hajiya Ibrahim described the occasion as a celebration of an exceptional public servant whose unwavering commitment, professionalism and integrity positively impacted both the Administrative Unit and the Secretariat at large. She noted that throughout his career, Mr. Madaki carried out his responsibilities with diligence, passion and a strong sense of duty, leaving behind an impressive record of service and inspiring many of his colleagues. She prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health and long life for him as he begins a new phase in retirement.

Several Heads of Units who spoke at the ceremony paid glowing tributes to the retiree, describing him as a humble, dependable and committed officer who discharged his responsibilities with dedication and without complaint. They commended his exceptional work ethic, loyalty, willingness to support colleagues and unwavering commitment to service.

The speakers further highlighted his exemplary character, noting that his respect for others, strong family values and peaceful disposition distinguished him throughout his years in service. They described him as a selfless officer whose legacy of integrity, professionalism and dedication would continue to inspire both present and future generations of staff.

In his response, Mr. Madaki expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Director, Administration, Hajiya Rakiya Ibrahim, and the entire staff of the Education Secretariat for the honour accorded him. He thanked his colleagues for their friendship, cooperation, and support throughout his career and encouraged staff members to remain hardworking, committed, and dedicated in discharging their official responsibilities.

Mr. Madaki’s retirement marks the successful conclusion of a distinguished public service career that began on 10 July 1991, when he joined the FCT Administration as an Adult Education Instructor (GL.03/1) and was posted to the Kwali Zonal Office.

Born on 2 October 1969 in Leda, Kwali Area Council of the FCT, he attended Suleja LGEA Primary School, Yebu, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1980, before proceeding to Government Secondary School (GSS), Bwari, where he earned the General Certificate of Education (GCE) in 1986.

Driven by a passion for continuous learning and self-development, he obtained a Diploma in Management Studies from Niger State Polytechnic, Bida, in 1995, and later earned a Diploma in Business Administration and Management from the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, between 2011 and 2012.

Following his promotion to the Executive Assistant Cadre in 1996, he was deployed to the Agency for Mass Education Headquarters, Karu, where he served in the Administration Department before transferring to the FCT Education Secretariat in May 2008. Through hard work, professionalism and dedication, he steadily rose through the ranks to attain the position of Chief Executive Officer (Grade Level 14).