Jos, Plateau State — Thursday, 18th December 2025
The Plateau State Specialist Hospital brought the year to a memorable close with its End-of-Year Get-Together and Award Dinner Night, held at the Zumji Event Center, Sabon Barki, Jos, gathered top government officials, hospital management, staff, retirees, and partners in the health sector for an evening of celebration, reflection, and recognition.
In his welcome remarks, the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Christopher Sabo Yilgwan, expressed gratitude to attendees for honoring the invitation and apologized for his brief delay. He commended the vibrant turnout, noting the diversity and colorful presence of staff and guests, which he attributed partly to the power of social media in information dissemination.
Prof. Yilgwan specially welcomed dignitaries including the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, the Permanent Secretary, commissioners from sister ministries, colleagues from sister hospitals, and the entire hospital workforce. He paid particular attention to the staff being honored, inviting them to stand and receive a special round of applause.
Reflecting on the journey of the initiative, the CMD noted that what began as a modest idea the previous year had grown significantly and expressed optimism for an even larger celebration in the coming years. He encouraged staff to relax, socialize freely, and build relationships that would foster unity and smoother collaboration within the workplace.
Delivering the goodwill message, the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, echoed similar sentiments of appreciation and admiration for the event’s organization. He described the gathering as refreshing, noting how unusual yet pleasant it was to associate the hospital environment with dining, celebration, and relaxation rather than illness and treatment.
Dr. Ba’amlong praised the CMD and management for changing the narrative around healthcare institutions by creating opportunities that celebrate staff, retirees, and service excellence. He highlighted the importance of such forums in exposing stakeholders to the various health services being provided across Plateau State and encouraging similar recognition initiatives in other agencies.
He concluded by commending the dedication of hospital staff, acknowledging that their efforts have greatly improved service delivery and public confidence in the healthcare system.
A key highlight of the evening was a retirement-focused talk delivered by Mr. Solomon Shikang, who reminded staff that retirement is inevitable and preparation is essential.
Through a reflective story and personal experiences, he emphasized the importance of early planning, purpose, and legacy. He encouraged staff not to shy away from conversations about retirement but to see it as a phase of life that can be fulfilling when properly prepared for. His message resonated deeply with both serving staff and retirees present.
During interviews with retirees, Mrs. Felicia Awasak, a Laboratory Specialist, expressed joy and fulfillment at being recognized. She thanked God for strength throughout her years of service and affirmed her belief that retirement does not end relevance or contribution.
Similarly, Mr. Goltong James Goyi reflected on how retirement celebrations had evolved over the years. He described the current approach as a welcome departure from the past, where retirees often exited quietly without recognition. He applauded the hospital management for sustaining the initiative and encouraged colleagues still in service to uphold professionalism and integrity in their duties.
Speaking on behalf of all retirees, Dr. Simon Dachallom Audu expressed profound gratitude to God, the hospital management, and government officials for the honor bestowed on them. He acknowledged colleagues still in service for their support and remembered those who were unable to witness the day.
He described the recognition as deeply meaningful and prayed for continued blessings upon the leadership of the hospital and the Plateau State Government.
The award ceremony followed, beginning with the presentation of honors to retirees. In total, about 31 retirees were celebrated for their years of dedicated service. Each retiree received commendation awards and a 32-inch plasma television as a token of appreciation.
Ms. Sabina Joseph, a Chief Health Records Technician who served from 1990 to 2025
Ms. Maria Daphne Ezra, former Director of Nursing, noted for her leadership and commitment to patient care
The celebration continued with awards recognizing team spirit and excellence, including the side-by-side football tournament, where Team Lab emerged champions of the 2025 final competition.
Outstanding staff members were also recognized, notably Mr. Benjamin Dio and Ms. Rachel Yari Simon, security personnel commended for their vigilance and role in preventing vandalism of hospital facilities.
The event concluded on a high note, marked by applause, celebration, and renewed commitment to service excellence. Special appreciation was extended to Hon. Charles Clayton Schumacher, Commissioner for Science and Technology, for his presence and support.
The Plateau State Specialist Hospital End-of-Year Get-Together and Award Dinner Night 2025 stood as a powerful reminder of the value of appreciation, unity, and honoring service reinforcing a culture where dedication is recognized, and people truly matter.
