It was a moment of warmth and camaraderie as the Executive management and staff of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, honoured the outgone Permanent Secretary and Secretary of the Board, Sir Byron Unini, at a colourful sent-forth ceremony held in his honour in Asaba, the state capital.
The event celebrated Sir Unini’s outstanding and impactful contributions in his over 11 years of distinguished service in SUBEB, which stakeholders said was marked by professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to duty.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Hon. Samuel Mariere, described Sir Unini as a dependable administrator, saying that his wealth of knowledge, calm disposition, and leadership, remained invaluable assets in SUBEB all the years of service in the agency.
“Sir Byron Unini is a consummate professional whose discipline, integrity, and dedication to service have left an enduring mark on SUBEB. His calm and methodical approach to administration, strengthened policy coordination and programme implementation in the Board. Unini ensured stability and efficiency at all times in our operations,” Mariere said.
The Executive Chairman commended Sir Unini’s commitment to teamwork, even as he urged him to maintain a good standing in service and committed to excellence.
Hon Mariere wished him success in his new assignment, and charged him to remain a good ambassador in the education sector.
“While we will miss his wealth of experience, we are confident that he will continue to excel and contribute meaningfully to government service in his new role as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy.
“We will continue to reach out to him when the need arises and we hope that he will always make his services available,” Mariere added.
The 2nd Member of the Board, Comrade Onome Akpogherhe, and some top management staff who spoke, paid glowing tributes to the Permanent Secretary, highlighting his excellent service and positive impacts in SUBEB.
While Comrade Akpogherhe commended Sir Unini for his sound knowledge and dedication, the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Mariam Dumbili; Director of Academic Services, Mrs. Francisca Okpe; and Director Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Eduiyovwiri Charles, praised his supportive leadership style, transparency, and commitment to staff development.
They stated that the man being celebrated promoted unity, transparency, and efficiency across the board in SUBEB and created an enabling environment for staff to thrive and contribute meaningfully in their careers as civil servants.
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mrs. Eru Ezefili, noted that the event was a testament to Sir Unini’s dedication, commitment, and excellent leadership in SUBEB, highlighting his commitment to capacity building and growth of others.
Mrs Ezefili, flanked by other members of the Committee, including Mrs Dumbili Maryan, Engr, Syvester Etatefia and Dr Ayuwe Samuel, stated that Unini’s departure would be deeply felt, saying, “Sir Unini’s contributions to SUBEB will be remembered for a long time, and we wish him well in his new assignment.”
The elated Sir Unini, in his response, expressed gratitude to the Chairman, Board members, and staff for the honour and support all through his career in the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB.
Unini assured of continued commitment to public service in his new role as Permanent Secretary at the Delta State Ministry of Energy.
“I am deeply humbled to be so celebrated by the Chairman, members, management, and staff of the Board. The successes we recorded were a collective effort, and I remain grateful for the cooperation and support of the entire SUBEB family,” he said.
The high point of the ceremony was presentation of gifts to Sir Byron Unini by the Board Chairman and staff, symbolizing their appreciation for his meritorious service.
Sir Unini began his journey in SUBEB as Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, where he strengthened data-driven planning and policy development, significantly improving educational programme delivery across Delta State.
He later served as Secretary of the Board, demonstrating strong administrative coordination and institutional leadership.
Throughout his tenure, he maintained a smooth working relationship with the Chairman, Board members, and Directors, fostering teamwork and operational stability.
His dedication and professional competence earned him appointment as Permanent Secretary during the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
Sir Unini’s legacy at SUBEB remains widely acknowledged as one that strengthened institutional efficiency and advanced the administration of basic education in Delta State.