Richard Pheelangwah has resumed as Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, succeeding Alhaji Aliyu Shinkafi, who just retired from service.

Recall the outgoing minister, Shinkafi, had taken over from the newly appointed Head of Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, early in January this year.

Walson-Jack, who was previously deployed to the Federal Ministry of Education, was recently appointed as the Head of Service of the Federation.

Upon resuming his duties, Pheelangwah stressed the importance of collaboration and teamwork, committing to prioritising staff welfare and professional development.

He expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his appointment, acknowledging the President’s vision and leadership.

Pheelangwah urged ministry staff to embrace diligence, inclusivity, respect, and communication, promising to reward contributions and enhance skills through capacity building and training.

According to him, the ministry’s essential role is providing safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, stressing their importance as fundamental human rights.

He pledged to work closely with the ministry’s leadership and staff to ensure universal access to these services, particularly in underserved communities.

The ministry’s Director of Press, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, in a statement on Thursday, said Mr. Pheelangwah, with extensive experience in various Federal Ministries, has outlined plans for policy reforms, strategic planning, and effective regulations to strengthen the water and sanitation sector.

In his farewell address, Alhaji Shinkafi expressed gratitude to the ministry’s staff and stakeholders for their support during his tenure.

He welcomed Pheelangwah and assured him of the team’s commitment to advancing the ministry’s mandate.

Mrs. Phoebe Nwandu, Director of Special Duties, congratulated Mr. Pheelangwah and expressed appreciation for Alhaji Shinkafi’s exceptional leadership and contributions to the ministry.