By: Gafar Alabi

The management and staff of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), have celebrated the Chairman, Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, on his 65th birthday.

The event, which took place at the Board Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, was marked with joy and goodwill messages as members of the Board gathered to honour the celebrant.

In his remarks, Evangelist Ifede expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the staff for the love shown towards him, describing the gesture as overwhelming. He noted that “life does not belong to anybody,” imploring everyone to cultivate good character wherever they find themselves and  live purposefully as if tomorrow would never be  theirs.

“I thank you all for celebrating me in this manner. You surprised me and made me feel special. Seeing everyone rejoicing and smiling today gladdens my heart and I am very grateful, I pray that God will honour you beyond your imagination,” he said.

The SUBEB boss also promised that every staff member would be celebrated on their birthdays, emphasising the importance of mutual recognition and appreciation in the workplace.

In their goodwill messages, Permanent Member III, Hon. Abiodun Ajayi and Permanent Member IV, Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun, described the celebrant as resourceful, caring and indefatigable, praying for continued good health and wisdom to take the Board to greater heights.

Earlier, the Board Secretary, Mr. Olubori Akinleye, described Evangelist Ifede as a good listener and compassionate leader who listened to issues with understanding. He charged staff to emulate such qualities and continue to celebrate one another in unity.

Speaking on behalf of the Directors, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Femi Fatade, commended the celebrant’s leadership style and commitment to staff welfare, assuring him of their continued cooperation and support.

Also speaking, the State Chairman of the Association of Primary School Headteachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), Comrade Folake Onabajo and the Education Secretary of Abeokuta South Local Government, who also doubles as the Chairman, Conference of Education Secretaries in the State, Mr. Alli Muhammad, lauded Evangelist Ifede’s passion, commitment and leadership by example.

They prayed for divine strength and grace for him to continue his good works and lead the Board to greater accomplishments.