Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, has retired from the Federal Civil Service after 22 years, leaving behind a record of reforms and innovation.
His retirement was announced in a statement on Monday in Abuja by Patience Ituke, Principal Superintendent of Press at the Directorate of Information and Public Relations.
Aduda, who became the youngest Nigerian to complete the mandatory eight-year tenure as a federal permanent secretary at the age of 53, voluntarily stepped down seven years before the statutory retirement age of 60.
During his tenure, he introduced several reforms, including establishing a Defence Industry Regulatory Department to boost local arms production and proposing centralised procurement for the Armed Forces. He also revived the long-abandoned Veterans’ Hospital project and spearheaded the creation of a National Mine Action Centre for humanitarian demining.
Aduda earned praise from workers’ unions after restoring staff buses that had been grounded for decades, demonstrating a strong commitment to staff welfare.
In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to colleagues, describing his civil service career as “an honour and a privilege.” He urged serving officers to uphold integrity, excellence, and teamwork in carrying out their duties.
Aduda pledged to continue contributing to national development even in retirement. He has handed over to Dr. S. M. Attah, Director of the Army Affairs Department, who will serve as Acting Permanent Secretary.
