By Olawumi Oyehan
After 35 years of distinguished service in the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Esv. Umar Sayyadi has bowed out as Director of the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS), with colleagues and top FCT officials hailing him as a symbol of professionalism, integrity, and quiet authority.
An emotional send-forth ceremony held Thursday at the AGIS headquarters brought together senior directors, staff, family members, and well-wishers who celebrated a public servant many described as “a trailblazer” and “a man of due process”.
The Director of Land Administration, Esv. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, led tributes, describing Sayyadi’s career as a testament to merit and character.
“It is a rare privilege to be celebrated at retirement, and Sayyadi earned it. He is a principled administrator who rose to the rank of Director purely on merit. He carried himself with calm authority and never compromised standards,” Nwankwoeze said.
Also speaking, the Director of Administration, Department of Land, Mr. Uzo Udegbunam, praised Sayyadi’s dedication and willingness to bridge institutional gaps.
“Sayyadi is a man of good character who remained dedicated and committed to his duties. He consistently supported both AGIS and Land Administration to fill gaps without hesitation,” Udegbunam said. He thanked the retiring Director for his contributions to the FCT civil service and wished him success in his next chapter.
For many in the premises, the moment was also personal. Esv. Folake Odusiga Rashidat, Deputy Director, Estate, Department of Land Administration and FCT Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors and Valuers, recalled their days as classmates at Kaduna Polytechnic in 1990.
“Sayyadi is a trailblazer worthy of emulation. His leadership qualities and significant contributions to both departments and the FCT Administration have set a standard for the rest of us,” she said.
In an emotion-laden response, Sayyadi expressed gratitude to the management and staff of AGIS and the Department of Land Administration under the leadership of Esv. Nwankwoeze, saying the outpouring of accolades made him feel deeply valued.
He reserved special appreciation for the FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, for approving his confirmation as substantive Director of AGIS.
“I thank the Honourable Minister for his outstanding leadership and for the trust reposed in me. I also thank my colleagues for their support over the years, and my family for being my strongest support system throughout my career,” Sayyadi said.
Sayyadi joined the FCT Administration 35 years ago and rose through the ranks, playing key roles in land administration and geographic information management in the nation’s capital.
The ceremony ended with prayers, presentation of gifts, and a standing ovation for a man many described as “an institution within the institution”.