Defence Ministry Permanent Secretary prioritises staff welfare, workplace improvement

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, has reaffirmed his commitment to building a more supportive and productive work environment for staff of the ministry.

He made this known on Monday during a familiarisation tour of departments and facilities at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, in Abuja.

Pheelangwa, who assumed office on 26 November 2025, embarked on an extensive walkthrough of offices to assess working conditions and directly interface with employees.

The visit is part of his early efforts to understand the ministry’s operational needs and align them with his vision for improved administrative efficiency.

Speaking during the tour, the Permanent Secretary stressed that staff welfare and a conducive workspace are central to achieving high performance in any organisation.

“A good working environment is good for productivity,” he said, noting that civil servants spend the majority of their day at work and deserve a space that supports both their well-being and output.

“If the environment is conducive, they are happier, healthier and more productive. I always advise staff to make their workplace pleasant and not allow any negativity to affect their work”, he added.

He commended the ministry for its organised structure and expressed satisfaction with the orderliness he observed across offices.

Pheelangwa assured workers that his administration will prioritise their comfort and provide the necessary tools to enhance service delivery.

Since assuming duty, the Permanent Secretary has held briefing sessions with directors and heads of units to better acquaint himself with departmental functions, challenges, and immediate priorities.

The visit , set the tone for a staff-centered leadership approach aimed at strengthening productivity and fostering a positive work culture within the Ministry of Defence.