A Seasoned Civil and Structural Engineer, Fountain of Knowledge, Mentor, Role Model and Distinguished Patriot Exits Active Service After More Than Three Decades of Dedicated Service

It was a day filled with deep emotions, heartfelt tributes, fond memories and profound appreciation as staff of the Construction Division, Department of Public Building, which organized the valedictory session at the Director’s Conference Room, alongside staff from other divisions within the Department, other departments of the Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, and the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, joined colleagues, professional associates, friends and well-wishers to honour a distinguished son of the FCT Civil Service, Engr. Bello Kabir, on the occasion of his retirement from active service upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.

2nd Left: Engr. Bello Kabir

The valedictory ceremony was not merely a farewell. It was a celebration of a remarkable career, a distinguished professional journey and an enduring legacy built over more than three decades of service to the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Having joined the FCT Civil Service on 17th January 1992, Engr. Bello Kabir devoted a substantial part of his productive years to the development of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. His story gives truth to the saying that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a first step. What started as a single step on that January day has become a remarkable journey of more than three decades, marked by growth, versatility and impact. As a seasoned Civil and Structural Engineer, and a truly versatile professional who is adept in many areas of the built environment, he distinguished himself through professionalism, technical competence, diligence and an unwavering commitment to duty.

Throughout his career, he participated in the delivery and supervision of multiple complex and high-value projects, bringing to bear his wealth of technical knowledge, experience, expertise and meticulous attention to detail. His ability to handle demanding assignments with precision and distinction earned him the respect of colleagues and professionals across the construction and built environment sectors. He was a man who believed that any work worth doing was worth doing well.

Beyond his technical accomplishments, however, Engr. Bello Kabir will be remembered even more profoundly for the person he is. He is calm, brilliant, humble, approachable and principled, yet uncompromising whenever professional standards, quality of work and the interest of the organisation were at stake.

He was a fountain of knowledge, a mentor to many and a role model to countless professionals and staff who had the rare privilege of working with him. His office and professional interactions became, for many, an informal school where experience was generously shared, mistakes were corrected with patience, standards were upheld and younger professionals were encouraged to grow.

The depth of his impact became particularly evident during the valedictory ceremony, as staff from various divisions and departments gathered to celebrate a quintessential colleague whose contribution to the Construction Division, the Department of Public Building, the FCDA and the wider built environment will remain deeply appreciated and fondly remembered.

The atmosphere was understandably emotional. For many colleagues, the occasion represented the difficult moment of saying farewell to a rare professional whose presence, counsel and institutional memory had become an invaluable part of the Department. Tears and emotions flowed freely as colleagues reflected on the years of working alongside him and the vacuum his retirement will inevitably create.

The occasion was graced by the presence of the Acting Director, Department of Public Building, who represented the Director, alongside Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, Heads of Administration and Human Resources, senior members of staff, professional colleagues and other distinguished personnel who came together to honour the retiring engineer.

In an atmosphere of warmth and appreciation, encomiums were showered on the celebrant. His colleagues and associates spoke glowingly of his professionalism, integrity, humility, technical depth, discipline and remarkable contribution to the development of the Federal Capital Territory.

The celebration also featured memorable moments, including the presentation of priceless gifts, the filling of the citation register, entertainment and refreshments, and the ceremonial cutting of the retirement cake. Each moment added another beautiful chapter to an occasion that many will remember for years to come.

Indeed, the gathering demonstrated a timeless principle, honour is given to whom honour is due.

In his emotional valedictory address, Engr. Bello Kabir expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for bringing him safely to such an important milestone. He appreciated the management of the FCDA, his directors, supervisors, colleagues and everyone who contributed to his successful career.

He also extended an apology to anyone he may have offended knowingly or unknowingly in the course of his duties and equally offered forgiveness to those who may have offended him. His message reflected the humility, maturity and sense of humanity that have characterised his professional journey.

While bidding farewell to active service, he made it clear that retirement should not be viewed as an end, but as the beginning of another chapter. He leaves the Civil Service with gratitude, satisfaction in having served his country and a wealth of experiences and memories accumulated over more than three decades.

His words to those remaining in service were equally instructive, to continue serving with integrity, professionalism, humility and commitment, remembering that positions are temporary, while the impact made on people and the legacy left behind can endure for generations.

His remarkable journey can aptly be captured in his own reflective words:

I came into the service with hope, I served with commitment, and I leave with gratitude.

Those words perhaps best summarise the career of a man whose professional journey has been defined by dedication, service and responsibility.

As Engr. Bello Kabir formally exits the FCT Civil Service, his departure marks not simply the retirement of an employee, but the conclusion of an important chapter in the professional history of the Construction Division and the Department of Public Building.

The built environment has gained from his knowledge. The Civil Service has benefited from his years of commitment. His colleagues have benefited from his mentorship. And the many professionals who crossed his path carry with them lessons, memories and experiences that will continue to live on.

As he proceeds into this new chapter of life, may Almighty Allah reward his years of service, grant him sound health, peace, fulfilment and abundant blessings, and grant him and his family many more fruitful and rewarding years ahead.

Congratulations on a successful and honourable retirement, Engr. Bello Kabir.

Your service was significant.
Your impact was undeniable.
Your mentorship was invaluable.
Your legacy will endure.

Indeed, a rare gem is exiting active service, but a legacy remains.

Long live the FCT Civil Service.
Long live the Federal Capital Development Authority.
Long live the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Contributed by Bldr. Maidabino, Construction Division, Department of Public Building, Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, Abuja – 30th September, 2026.