Mr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe has assumed duty as the new Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
This was made known to the public in a press statement signed on Wednesday by Chief information officer for Director of information (FMARD) Mr Ezeaja lkemefuna
Addressing Directors and Management staff of the Ministry today, in Abuja, Mr. Umakhihe while receiving the Handing Over notes from the sit-in Permanent Secretary, Hajia Karima Babaginda, Director, Federal Department of Agriculture, stressed on the need for team work and cooperation of the Directors,in order to achieve the diversification policy of Mr. President in the Agricultural Sector.
He stated “I am here to operate an open door policy, learn from the Directors, add value and coordinate the affairs of the Ministry”
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While welcoming the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Karima Babaginda informed that the ministry has the mandate to ensure food security and create employment opportunities for teaming youths of the nation.
Therefore,She pledged the loyalty and commitment of the Directors and the entire staff of the ministry.
Mr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe who was born on the 5th of April, 1964, is a Professional Accountant of high repute, a core Technocrat and an Astute Administrator.
He has served in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Sports, Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning and Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.