Friends, family members, and associates gathered yesterday to celebrate Mr Adetayo Haastrup, the Public Relations Officer, PRO, National Hospital, Abuja, who retired from civil service upon attaining the age of 60.
Haastrup, who joined the hospital at its inception in 1999, rose through the ranks to become Head of Information and Public Relations.
At a thanksgiving service held at the hospital chapel in Abuja, attendees paid tribute to his dedication, humility, and selfless service over the years.
Delivering a sermon titled ‘The Attributes of God’, Pastor Ben Amanambu described God as selfless and sacrificial, urging the congregation to emulate these qualities by demonstrating genuine love and compassion for others.
Haastrup, who also holds the traditional title of Olumobi of Imobi Ijesa in Osun, expressed gratitude to God for his journey.
“We started National Hospital in 1999, and I am one of the pioneer staff. The experience has made me humble and compassionate because I’ve seen both the high and the low in society fall ill.
“I have witnessed a great deal and concluded that nothing in life is more meaningful than giving back to society“, he said.
He emphasised the need for empathy in the healthcare sector and called on professional associations to minimise industrial actions due to their devastating consequences.
“Each time there is a strike, lives are lost. Healthcare workers must act with compassion, and I urge the government and well-meaning individuals to invest more in the health sector”, he added.
In a goodwill message, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, conveyed his prayers for prosperity and good health for Haastrup in retirement.
The message, delivered by the Director-General of the South West Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Francis Agbede, prayed for prosperity and good health for Haastrup post-retirement.
“When one retires, he gains valuable time that can be used to accomplish much”.
Similarly, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Mr Danladi Mwantok, Coordinator of the State Liaison Office, said turning 60 was no small feat and prayed for Haastrup to attain 100 years in good health.
His wife, Justice Rakkiya Haastrup, described him as a man who loves God and serves as a mentor to many.
“He is more than a friend to me, he is a mentor. I pray that the Lord keeps him and that the peace of God continues to abide in his life in the mighty name of Jesus.
“He is a man after God’s heart, like David. As the scripture says, ‘The path of the just is as a shining light, shining ever brighter unto the perfect day”.
His daughter, Dr. Elizabeth Haastrup, also expressed appreciation for his support, describing him as more than a father.
“He always went out of his way to ensure we flourished. I pray he lives long to enjoy the fruits of his labour”, she said.
A colleague, Mr Eric Togbe, hailed Haastrup as an astute administrator and fondly referred to him as the “microphone guru” of the hospital.
“His impact on the hospital is unmistakable and deeply appreciated. On behalf of everyone he has touched, mentored, empowered, and inspired, we say thank you”, he said.
News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that Haastrup is also the immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Abuja chapter. NAN
