The newly redeployed Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development,Hon. Chidiebere Onyia, has officially assumed office following a formal handover ceremony from his predecessor, Prince Richard Idike, on Wednesday.
The transition follows a cabinet reshuffle by the Executive Governor, which saw Onyia redeployed from the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development to oversee the youth and sports portfolio.
Speaking during the briefing, the outgoing commissioner, Prince Richard Idike, expressed deep gratitude to God and the state governor for the opportunity to serve.
Reflecting on his tenure, Idike highly commended the staff of the ministry for their exceptional work ethic, professionalism, and unwavering loyalty.
“I want to introduce you to the staff of the Youth and Sports Ministry. All of them are ready to work with you,” Idike stated.
“I have worked in many places, but I have never worked with the kind of people I am working with here.
”They are very loyal and strictly comply with leadership policies, avoiding the administrative bottlenecks often associated with civil servants. I promise you that you will enjoy this ministry even more than your former office.”
Idike, who expressed a bittersweet sentiment about leaving the team, wished the incoming commissioner immense success and favoured alignment with the administration’s vision, reassuring the staff that his doors remain open for continued collaboration.
In his response, the incoming commissioner, Chidiebere Onyia, paid glowing tribute to Prince Idike, describing him as a long-time mentor and leader whom he had admired since his school days at Science School, Igbeagu, during Idike’s tenure in the State House of Assembly.
Onyia assured his predecessor that the ministry’s staff were in safe hands and committed to building upon the foundations already established.
“The legacies you left here will be consolidated,” Onyia affirmed.
“We believe in nurturing relationships because you never know who will be your saviour tomorrow. It is never wise to destroy the bridge after you cross it. As my mentor and boss, I will continue to reach out to you for guidance.”
Highlight of the event was the expressions of goodwill, marking a seamless administrative transition aimed at driving forward the state’s youth development and sporting agenda.