From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu has officially assumed duty as the new Permanent Secretary of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, following the redeployment of his predecessor, Dr. Alhassan Ibrahim Adamu, to the Ministry of Health.
The handover ceremony, which took place on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the ministry’s headquarters, featured commendations for the outgoing Permanent Secretary and assurances of continuity and collaboration by the new helmsman.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Alhassan Ibrahim Adamu expressed appreciation to the management and staff of the ministry for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure, describing his experience as fulfilling.
“I can confidently say I enjoyed every moment working here because you all made my job easier. I sincerely thank you for the cooperation and support I received from the entire staff,” he said.
Dr. Alhassan, a Public Health Practitioner, recalled his initial concerns about being posted to the sports sector but noted that he remained committed, trusting the judgment of those who appointed him.
“Despite the challenges, we were able to achieve notable reforms and improvements. I urge everyone to give my successor even more support to enable him succeed and continue delivering the mandate of His Excellency,” he added.
In his remarks, the new Permanent Secretary, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, commended his predecessor for what he described as a solid and impactful legacy, attributing the achievements recorded to dedication and strong leadership.
“What Dr. Alhassan has done here is palpable. He has laid a foundation worthy of emulation, and I consider him a mentor and role model,” Dr. Sasetu said.
He pledged to build on the gains recorded so far and assured staff of an open-door policy aimed at encouraging ideas and initiatives that would positively impact the ministry and the youth of Nasarawa State.
“I will rely on your cooperation and contributions, irrespective of rank, to move this ministry forward. Together, we will sustain and improve on the programmes already initiated,” he said.
Several stakeholders who spoke at the event—including the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Helen Madaki; Director of Stadium and Facilities, Yusuf Ahmed; Deputy Director of Youth, Jonathan Gabu; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Students Affairs, Rt. Hon. Shaibu Sani; and a representative of the National Youth Service Corps, Paul Adukwa—praised Dr. Alhassan for policies and programmes they said had lasting impact on youths in the state.
They charged Dr. Sasetu to consolidate on the gains recorded to ensure sustained development in the youth and sports sector.
The ceremony concluded with the formal handover of official documents to the new Permanent Secretary, followed by group photographs.
