The Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) on Friday rolled out the drums to celebrate two of its long-serving officers, Chief Confidential Secretary, Mrs. Animashaun Adenike and Chief Executive Officer (Audit) Mrs. Olawunmi Odunsi, at a colourful retirement and send-off ceremony held at the Board's Conference Room, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The event, which drew Board Members, Management, staff and well-wishers, was filled with tributes and encomiums, highlighting the officers’ decades of meritorious service to the State.
Executive Chairman of the Board, Evang. Ifede Olalekan Joshua, described retirement as a joyful transition and urged the celebrants to embrace this new chapter with gratitude and optimism. “Be happy and don’t allow anything to take away your joy. Retirement is not an end, but a beginning for renewal,” he advised.
While encouraging them to take some time to rest before engaging in community, religious or business activities, the Chairman stressed the importance of good health in retirement. He reassured staff that only officers who distinguished themselves through hard work, dedication and integrity would be honoured at retirement.
Evangelist Ifede expressed appreciation to Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON, Board Members, Management and staff for their support in his first two months in office, which he noted has strengthened SUBEB’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.
Board Secretary, Mr. Olubori Akinleye, commended the Chairman for making the celebration possible and lauded the retiring officers for their outstanding contributions. He prayed for God’s continued strength for them and expressed hope that the State Government would continue to reward their service.
In separate goodwill messages, Permanent Members I,II and IV; Barr. Femi Odufowokan, Hon. Abiodun Donaldson Ajayi, and Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun congratulated the retirees for their resilience and dedication, urging them to remain active while prioritising their health. Directors and senior officers, including Director, Academic and School Services, Mrs. Kehinde Anifowoshe and Head of Audit Unit, Alhaji Tajudeen Yusuf also shared heartfelt tributes.
Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Olufemi Fatade, applauded the Chairman for institutionalising the celebration of meritorious service, describing it as “the first of its kind.” He urged younger officers to emulate the virtues of the retirees by rededicating themselves to duty.
In their responses, Mrs. Animashaun and Mrs. Odunsi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Board for the recognition, thanking the Chairman and Management for honouring their service. They prayed that every member of staff would also end their careers well.
