By Rafiyat Abdullahi in Abuja.
The Federal Ministry of Justice has honoured Mrs. Modupe Theresa Ogundoro, former Director of Information and Public Relations, who retired after 35 years of meritorious service.
The event, which took place on Thursday in Abuja also coincided with her 60th birthday, and drew directors, colleagues, family members, friends, and associates who paid glowing tributes to her career, character, and contributions to public service.
Mrs. Ogundoro, a French graduate of the University of Lagos and an associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), previously served at the Ministries of Finance and Water Resources before her deployment to the Justice Ministry.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Victoria Ojogbane, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, described Ogundoro as “dutiful, friendly, and energetic,” while urging civil servants to prepare for life after retirement.
Other dignitaries, including Mrs. Adeline Ojogwu, a retired director at the Ministry of Information, and Mr. Olujimi Oyetomi, extolled Ogundoro’s professionalism, humility, and approachable nature. The National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC) also commended her open-door policy and cordial relationship with journalists.
Staff of her department presented her with a parting gift in appreciation of her leadership, while her daughter, Mrs. Dolapo Akindele, praised her for successfully balancing career and family responsibilities.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ogundoro expressed gratitude to God, her family, and colleagues for their support throughout her career. She also appreciated the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the Solicitor-General, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, for their encouragement during her tenure.
“As I look back on my years of service, I am reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness, my family’s sacrifices, and my colleagues’ support. These have been the bedrock of my journey, and I am grateful for every moment,” she said.
“I leave with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I gave my best to the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“To my colleagues in the Information and Public Relations Department, I urge you to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism and dedication, and to give my successor full support for a seamless transition,” she said.
