On the 26th of March 2024, amidst cheers and heartfelt tributes, the O’clean Event Centre in Ikorodu local government witnessed a jubilant retirement get-together for two distinguished civil servants, Mr. Olabode Adebola, the Human Resources (HR) head, and Engr. Martins Odupitan, the Council Manager.

The event, a testament to their years of dedicated service, was attended by esteemed guests including the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu local government, Hon. Wasiu Adesina, who held both retirees in high regard.

The event not only marked the end of an era for two distinguished civil servants but also served as a celebration of their contributions and a testament to the lasting impact they had on the community they served.

Hon. Adebowale Adebola, the council leader, who attended the program, hailed the retirees as exceptional individuals who had diligently served the council in their respective capacities.

He expressed gratitude for their unwavering commitment and wished them continued success in their future endeavors.

Alhaji Lateef Afinni, the secretary to the local government, congratulated the retirees on their exemplary service and hinted at another special event to honor them further after the Ramadan season, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging their contributions.

Hon. (Dr.) Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, the council’s Vice Chairman, urged council officials to emulate the leadership qualities displayed by the outgoing council manager and HR personnel, highlighting the impact they had on her personally and professionally.

The Executive Chairman of Ikorodu local government, Hon. Wasiu Adesina, extolled the virtues of Engr. Martin Odupitan and Mr. Olabode Adebola in his speech.

Adesina’s remarks, delivered with sincerity and admiration, underscored the exceptional contributions of the outgoing council manager and HR head to the local government.

Addressing the gathering, the council boss lauded Engr. Martin Odupitan for his unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability throughout his tenure.

Despite occasional disagreements, Adesina acknowledged Odupitan’s unique approach to dialogue, which enriched the council’s decision-making processes and fostered mutual respect.

Reflecting on their professional journey, Adesina expressed his conviction that although Engr. Odupitan has retired from active service, his invaluable insights and institutional knowledge will continue to shape the council’s affairs.

He affirmed the council’s commitment to keeping Odupitan involved in key deliberations and initiatives, recognizing his enduring legacy of integrity and dedication.

Turning his attention to Mr. Olabode Adebola, the HR head, Adesina emphasized the profound impact of Adebola’s exemplary conduct and unwavering respect for the council’s leadership.

He praised Adebola for his inclusive approach to governance and his ability to treat every individual with dignity and fairness, noting that such qualities distinguished him as a cherished asset to the local government.

Hon. Wasiu Adesina offered heartfelt prayers for the continued success and fulfillment of both retirees in their post-service endeavors.

He encouraged them to embrace the adage “retired but not tired” as they embark on new chapters in their lives, confident in their capacity to excel and inspire others.

Adesina applauded Engr. Martin Odupitan and Mr. Olabode Adebola for their indelible contributions to the Ikorodu local government, stating that their legacies of integrity, professionalism, and servant leadership serve as a beacon of inspiration for current and future generations of public servants, reaffirming the enduring values of accountability, respect, and dedication within the community.

Conveying his gratitude, Mr. Olabode Adebola, the outgoing human resource head expressed appreciation for the honor bestowed upon him, reflecting on the lives he had touched during his tenure with humility and appreciation.

Emotional and overwhelmed with joy, Engr. Martins Odupitan could scarcely find words amidst the shower of praise and birthday tunes from guests and family members.

The event also doubled as the 60th birthday of the council manager.

The ceremony culminated in the presentation of gift items by council staff and the Association of Christian Staffs in Ikorodu local government, symbolizing appreciation for the retirees’ dedicated service and wishing them well in their future endeavors.