BY RITA OYIBOKA
THE Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC) has paid glowing tributes to Director of Commercial, Mr. Festus Uzor, as he marked his 60th birthday and retirement from service yesterday after attaining Grade Level 17, the apex of the Civil Service. A valedictory servicehe event, held at the corporation’s boardroom, saw a gathering of colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, to celebrate the achievements of Mr. Uzor, President of Media workers Cooperative Society.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting General Manager of DPPC, Mr. Godfrey Ubaka, extolled Uzor’s virtues and remarkable contributions to the organisation. “From the beginning of his career to reaching its apex, Mr. Festus Uzor has been a paragon of vision and leadership. His innovative ideas and dedication to The Pointer’s Commercial department and cooperative have left an indelible imprint on this organisation, and we are deeply grateful for the legacy he leaves behind,” he said.
Similarly, Editor, (Daily) Mrs. Edna Emeni, said that “having worked closely with Mr. Uzor in the Staff Welfare Association and in the Cooperative’s activities, I can attest to his honesty, trustworthiness, and passion for excellence. His legacy of integrity and hardwork will continue to inspire us all.”
The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), The Pointer Chapel, Comrade Rosemary Nwaebuni, praised Mr. Uzor as a man of transparency and order. Reflecting on her experience working with him, she remarked, “As his secretary in the Staff Welfare Association, I learnt so much from his exemplary leadership. Under his leadership, our cooperative funds remained secure. We pray for abundant blessings as he transitions to new endeavours.”
Representing the Chairperson of the National Union of Printing, Publishing, and Paper Product Workers (NUPPROW) in The Pointer, a former chairman of the branch, Mr. Sam Douvwode, lauded Uzor for his exceptional focus, leadership, and dedication to staff welfare. He also extended gratitude to Uzor’s family, acknowledging their role in supporting a successful career.
In his response, Uzor expressed gratitude for the overwhelming show of love. “It is never easy to part with colleagues who have become family. I am thankful for the three decades of support from The Pointer team and urge staff to view leadership positions as opportunities to serve rather than avenues for personal gain.” He expressed hope of improved service delivery by the media outfit. His wife, Mrs. Florence Uzor was beside him as he was showered with praises, reminding guests that behind every successful man is a woman.
The highlight was the presentation of gifts to Mr. uzor by various departments as well as individual staff as a gesture of appreciation for his leadership and service to DPPC.