The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, hosted a befitting send-off ceremony for the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA) in Ibadan North, Mr. Akeem Olayode Olatunji, as he retired from active service.
In his remarks, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade showered encomium on Mr. Akeem Olatunji, describing him as a humble, gentle, and astute administrator who played a fatherly role in the local government.
He expressed deep emotions over his retirement, stating that if he had the power, he would have extended his years of service due to his remarkable work ethic, intelligence, and dedication.
Hon. Olufade described his time working with Mr. Olatunji as memorable and urged all local government staff to emulate his exemplary behavior.
Addressing Mr. Olatunji’s children, he assured them that he considers himself one of their father’s sons, given their close bond.
He wished him a happy retirement and prayed for a long and fulfilling life.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Williams Akinfunmilayo, also spoke highly of Mr. akeem Olayode Olatunji, acknowledging his significant contributions to his own career.
He described him as a highly optimistic individual who never succumbed to pessimism, attributing his success to his positive mindset.
Mr. Akinfunmilayo credited Mr. Olatunji as a key figure in the realization of the newly commissioned Local Government House at the Oyo State Secretariat.
He thanked God for allowing Mr. Akeem Olatunji to start and end his career well and prayed for his continued protection and good health in retirement.
Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, in her remarks, described Mr. Olatunji as a loyal friend, a dependable ally, and a devoted family man. She reminisced about their longstanding friendship, which began at the University of Ife now obafemi Awolowo University.
She praised his humanitarian qualities and expressed pride in his achievements.
Mrs. Oni also commended Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for his unwavering support for the outgoing HLA, describing him as a humble and compassionate personality.
She prayed for the chairman’s continued success.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Alani Bamgbose, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary for Oke-Ogun Zone 1, recounted his long history with Mr. Akeem olayode Olatunji, including serving as his best man during his wedding.
He described him as a supportive, humble, gentle, and assertive individual who always sought peace and harmony.
Mr. Bamgbose emphasized Mr. Akeem Olatunji’s immense leadership qualities, noting that his tenure as Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Local Government Administration in Oyo State was marked by significant achievements.
He played a crucial role in the establishment of the recently commissioned Local Government House and the distribution of official vehicles to heads of local governments across the state.
Mr. Bamgbose also extended his gratitude to Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for his support throughout these milestones, praising him as a kind-hearted and selfless leader.
In his appreciation speech, Mr. Akeem Olayode Olatunji expressed heartfelt gratitude to the executive chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for organizing a well-deserved retirement ceremony.
He described the chairman as a pragmatic and compassionate leader who made his final months in service fulfilling.
Initially reluctant about his posting to Ibadan North seven months before retirement, he later found it to be a home away from home.
He recounted how Hon. Olufade consistently showed him respect and valued his contributions.
Overwhelmed with appreciation, he prayed for continued blessings upon the chairman and thanked key dignitaries, his colleagues, family, and friends for their support and presence at the event.
The vote of thanks was delivered by the Director of Education and Social Services in Ibadan North Local Government, Alhaja Kudirat Nojimudeen.
She expressed gratitude to Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for hosting a remarkable send-off and appreciated all dignitaries and attendees for honoring the event.
She prayed for everyone’s safe return to their destinations.
Dignitaries in attendance included:
– Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni
– Oyo State Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Williams Akinfunmilayo
– Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Deacon Taiwo Adewale
– Vice Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Akeem Ayoade
– Leader of the House, Hon. Taiwo Adebola
– Ibadan North Local Government Secretary, Hon. Oluwafemi Bantu
– Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Hamdy Mustapha
– Supervisory Councilors and Special Assistants
– Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Kamorudeen Mudashiru
– Permanent Secretary, Ibadan Zone 1, Pastor Adeola Oduola
– Newly appointed Permanent Secretary, Oke-Ogun Zone 1, Mr. Alani Bamgbose
– Representative of Ibadan North Local Government Traditional Council, Prince Tajudeen Abimbola Aminu
– Directors and Heads of Departments in Ibadan North Local Government
– NULGE representatives, staff members, family, and friends
The event was a heartwarming and well-organized farewell to a dedicated civil servant who has left a lasting legacy in Ibadan North Local Government and beyond.
