BSIEC secretary hands over after federal appointment
Dr Vincent Gisaor, former secretary, Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC), has handed over following his appointment as the Executive Director, Administration and Finance and Accounts, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Abuja.
Gisaor handed over to the Director of Administration and Finance of the commission, Dr Samuel Akpoughul, at a ceremony in Makurdi on Friday.
Gisaor said he was appointed secretary of BSIEC on March 27, 2024, and assumed duty on May 7, 2024.
He said he inherited the handover notes of his predecessor to ensure administrative continuity and stability in the commission.
The former secretary listed the successful conduct of the 2024 local government elections as one of the major achievements recorded during his tenure.
According to him, the election was peaceful, competitive and well-participated, receiving positive assessments from the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions (FOSICOM) and other development partners.
Gisaor said the commission also installed a new gate at its headquarters, renovated and expanded its stores, installed CCTV cameras and rehabilitated the borehole.
He added that the commission created a functional website, restored its generating plants and procured vehicles, laptops and television sets for deserving staff.
The outgoing secretary also cited improved staff welfare, prompt promotions and payment of election honouraria as other achievements recorded during his tenure.
He, however, identified inadequate office accommodation for staff in the 23 local government areas, poor access roads to the commission’s headquarters and irregular funding as major challenges.
Gisaor said the handover included physical assets, about 193 staff at the headquarters and 23 local government offices, casual staff and financial records.
He thanked Gov. Hyacinth Alia for appointing him as secretary and subsequently elevating him to the position of executive director, Housing Finance and Accounts, Federal Housing Authority, Abuja.
Receiving the handover, Akpoughul commended Gisaor for his dedication, professionalism and service to the commission.
He expressed happiness over Gisaor’s elevation, describing his appointment to the FHA as a well-deserved recognition of his service.
Akpoughul said Gisaor would be greatly missed by the commission, particularly for his contributions, good working relationship and cordial interaction with staff.
He urged the former secretary to sustain his good deeds and maintain cordial relations with his former colleagues as he assumes his new responsibilities.
Earlier, BSIEC Chairman Mr Terlumun Tombuwua commended Gisaor for his dedication and contributions to the commission.
Represented by Mr Theodore Uchi, Commissioner, Transport, Works and Housing, Tombuwua said Gisaor’s elevation was a testament to his hard work, dedication and cordial relationship with staff and stakeholders.
He said the commission would miss Gisaor’s contributions and commitment, while expressing confidence that he would replicate his good work in his new position.
Tombuwua urged Gisaor not to forget his former colleagues and the commission, adding that his new position provided another opportunity to contribute to the development of Benue and Nigeria.