President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), has congratulated former Permanent Secretary, Chief Philip Asiodu, on his 88th birthday, February 26, celebrating the renowned economist and administrator, “whose discipline and competence contributed to the growth of Nigeria.’’
a congratulatory message released by his media aide, Mr Femi Adesina, on Friday in Abuja, the President joined family, friends and associates of Asiodu, in celebrating the joyous occasion of another year.
He congratulated the Ogbuefi Akuna Ka of Asaba in Delta, for the significant impact on the history of the country, particularly in shaping the economic and administrative structures, right from joining the civil service in 1964.
Buhari noted the ladership roles of the Patron of Council of Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries, which included Head of Chancery, Nigerian Permanent Mission to the UN, 1960-1962 and Member, Organisation of African Unity Provisional Secretariat, Addis Ababa, 1963-1964.
Asiodu was also Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Lagos, 1963-1964; Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Lagos, 1964-1965; acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, 1965-1966 and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industries, 1966-1971, Ministry of Mines and Power, 1971-1975 and Federal Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Lagos, 1975.
He was also Special Adviser to former President Shehu Shagari and Chief Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The President also lauded Asiodu for working closely with former Head of State, retired Gen Yakubu Gowon, in restoring peace and unity of Nigeria in the 60’s,
According to the President, Asiodu’s sense of patriotism continues to inspire younger public servants, especially in putting the country first.
Buhari prayed that the almighty God would grant the former frontline civil servant good health and strength.
-NAN
