ILE-OLUJI LGA PHC BIDS FAREWELL TO DEPUTY COORDINATOR, TWO OTHERS

It was a moment of mixed emotions on Thursday as the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency – Ile-Oluji LGA Team held a befitting retirement ceremony in honour of three long-serving officers who bowed out of the state civil service after decades of unbroken service.

The event, which drew staff, stakeholders, and community leaders, was a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and celebration, as the contributions of the retirees to primary health care at the grassroots were recounted with pride.

Those honoured included Mrs. Adefulure Iyabo, former Deputy PHC Coordinator, known for her disciplined yet empathetic leadership style. Colleagues described her as a stabilizing force within the system and a mentor to many.

Also recognized was Mr. Adegbite G. Akintunfe, who until his retirement served as LACA Manager. He was credited with strengthening HIV/AIDS coordination in the LGA and playing a key role in community-level disease surveillance activities.

Mrs. Fadamitan Sola, the outgoing Family Planning Coordinator, was similarly celebrated for her dedication to promoting reproductive health and ensuring broader access to family planning services, particularly among underserved populations.

In his remarks, Dr. Olanrewaju Gbadamosi, the PHC Coordinator for Ile-Oluji LGA, commended the retirees for what he described as “years of impactful service,” adding that their contributions have helped shape the local health system.

“We’re here today not just to say goodbye, but to honour legacies. These are people who invested their careers in service to others. Their efforts are not only visible but foundational to the successes we celebrate in our health system today,” he said.

The event featured presentations of gifts, goodwill speeches, and heartfelt reflections. Staff members recounted the work ethics, humility, and resilience of the retirees, noting that they leave behind shoes too big to fill.

As drums rolled and farewells were made, it was evident that their exit marked the end of an era—but also a moment to reflect on the importance of service and the impact of leadership at the community level.