The Chairman of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, has stated that celebration of staff upon retirement from active service is not an automatic arrangement, but is rather determined by hard work, dedication and commitment during the service years.

Ifede made this known at a retirement ceremony organised in honour of the Deputy Director, Management Service, Mr. Bola Womiloju; Deputy Director, Academic and School Services, Mrs. Esther Martins; and Confidential Secretary, Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Abisola Badru,  at the Board’s Conference Room, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

According to him, retirement ceremonies were reserved for officers who had distinguished themselves through commitment and exemplary service.

“Celebration after retirement is not automatic; commitment and dedication determine whether a staff member will be celebrated or not,” he said.

Describing the occasion as a testament to the retirees’ dedication to duty, the SUBEB Chairman expressed gratitude to God for sparing their lives to witness the completion of their careers. He encouraged the retirees to use their retirement period wisely by resting and engaging in activities that would keep them healthy and active.

He also charged other staff members to remain diligent and committed to the development of basic education in Ogun State, while felicitating the retirees on the successful completion of their service to the State.

In his goodwill message, Permanent Member IV, Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun, congratulated the retirees and advised serving staff to discharge their duties in line with extant rules to avoid sanctions.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Board Secretary, Mr. Olubori Akinleye, described the day as a special moment to honour officers who had contributed significantly to the growth of basic education in the State. He commended the Chairman for sustaining the tradition of celebrating deserving retirees.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Mr. Bola Womiloju expressed appreciation to the Chairman, Permanent Members, Directors, and staff for their support and goodwill, thanking them for honouring their retirement with a celebration.