Dr (Mrs) Ernest Naomi A. delivers emotional farewell speech, urges incoming executive to uphold integrity and selflessness
By Amawu, Cletus Albert Amawu.
After nine years of dedicated service as Treasurer of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MPCS) Limited, Dr (Mrs) Ernest Naomi A. has officially bowed out, delivering an emotional farewell address titled “Gratitude, Growth and New Chapter.”
Speaking at the cooperative’s general election and swearing-in ceremony held at the Senator Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, the outgoing Treasurer expressed profound gratitude to God, members of the society and colleagues for their support throughout her stewardship.
She reflected on her journey, describing her call to service as “not by merit but by the election of grace,” noting that grace sustained her through challenges, corrections and trials during her tenure.
Dr Ernest recalled difficult moments, including instances of personal attacks and insults, yet emphasised that her resilience stemmed from her determination to protect members’ finances and uphold the oath of office.
“There were tough decisions along the way, moments that tested our patience, and moments faced with severe attack and assault, when a corporator spat at me along the hospital corridor but Jesus stood as my fortress. Through it all, I witnessed the resilience and unity that define this society,” she recounted.
Highlighting her achievements, she pointed to improvements in the cooperative’s financial system, strengthened accountability, and the collective progress of members. She credited teamwork and the unwavering support of executives and members, particularly acknowledging Dr Gloria Archibong for nominating her to represent AMLSN-UCTH.
As she handed over the reins, Dr Ernest encouraged the new Treasurer and executives to pursue integrity, sacrifice and truthfulness in their service.
“My humble advice is that you need to be selfless and sacrificial without expecting anything in return. Be kind and compassionate. Stand firm in the midst of compromise and be calm when insulted or provoked,” she urged.
She further stressed that leadership should be anchored on values, not mere positions.
“In a world that often rewards showmanship and shortcuts, choosing values like selflessness, integrity and compassion might seem old-fashioned. But these are the foundations that build lasting legacy,” she said.
Dr Ernest ended her address with a firm reminder that during her tenure, members’ funds were safe and judiciously managed.
“I hope in one way or another I have managed to leave a positive mark during my time as Treasurer because your monies were not swallowed by mammon and strange snakes,” she declared.
Quoting, she concluded: “Leadership is not about titles or positions, it is about servanthood, impact, influence and inspiration.”
The gathering applauded her contributions as she stepped aside for the new administration to continue building on the cooperative’s legacy.
Read Full Text of Farewell Speech Below:
Farewell Address by Dr (Mrs) Ernest Naomi A., Outgoing Treasurer, UCTH Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MPCS) Limited
Title: Gratitude, Growth and New Chapter
Good afternoon, distinguished members of our Society,
I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude as I mark the conclusion of my stewardship as Treasurer of our dear Cooperative Society. My journey in this office was not by merit but, as I believe, by the election of grace. Grace sustained me through challenges, corrections, trials, and triumphs.
There were difficult moments, decisions that tested patience, occasions of harsh criticism, and even personal attacks. I vividly recall an incident where a corporator spat at me along the hospital corridor. Yet, in those moments, Jesus remained my fortress and strength. Through it all, I witnessed the resilience, unity, and collective spirit that define this Society.
My service has been both humbling and inspiring. Together, we strengthened our financial systems, improved accountability, and secured the trust of our members. Above all, we ensured that the funds entrusted to us remained safe, judiciously managed, and used for the growth of the Society.
I am deeply grateful to all members for your unwavering support, to my colleagues in the Executive for their collaboration, and especially to Dr Gloria Archibong, who nominated me to represent AMLSN-UCTH on this Council. Without your encouragement, this journey would not have been possible.
As I hand over the baton, I offer my humble counsel to the incoming Treasurer and executives:
Be selfless and sacrificial without expecting reward.
Be kind, compassionate, and firm in upholding the truth.
Remain calm when insulted or provoked.
Above all, let integrity guide every decision.
In a world that often rewards shortcuts and showmanship, values such as selflessness, integrity, and compassion may appear old-fashioned. Yet these are the foundations of a lasting legacy. Leadership is not about titles or positions; it is about servanthood, impact, influence, and inspiration.
I pray that God will grant the new leadership wisdom and strength to carry the Society to greater heights.
In conclusion, I hope that in one way or another, I have left a positive mark during my time as Treasurer. I stand here today with my conscience clear, your monies were not swallowed by mammon or strange snakes.
Thank you all for the trust, the corrections, the encouragement, and the opportunity to serve. May our Cooperative Society continue to thrive.
God bless you.
