Friends, colleagues, staff of various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Oyo State civil service, among other personalities, on Friday, rendered glowing tributes in honour of the Surveyor General of Oyo State, Mr Abiodun Alaba, who just retired.
Just as they commended Alaba for a glorious 34 years of service, many who spoke at the event held at the Western Hall, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan, also gave admonition on how to live a long and fulfilling retirement life.
In his remarks at the event, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, represented by the Agbolu of Ife, Oba Adekunle Adebowale, enjoined Alaba to remain active, exercise regularly, be constantly engaged rather than being idle.
Speaking, a former chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Oyo State chapter, Mr O.I. Akintola enjoined Alaba, to more than ever, pay attention to his health, and constantly engage his personal doctor for check-ups.
On her part, Rector, Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, Dr Nihinlola Olayinka-Dosumu praised Alaba for being concerned about the growth and progress of individuals and institutions.
Permanent Secretary, Oyo Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey and Urban Development, Mrs. M. O. Adebiyi, in her remarks, lauded Alaba’s passion for the job, praying for good health in retirement.
Giving an exhortation at the event, Reverend John Oyelade of Fountain of Peace Baptist Church, Oyo, enjoined Alaba to use his remaining years for the service of humanity, counselling people, not forgetting the service of God.
Oyelade noted that it was remarkable that Alaba used his wealth and experience to help a lot of people.
Speaking with Tribune Online after the event, Alaba described his 34 years in service as eventful and full of challenges.
He, however, noted that the challenges strengthened him to be better in the practice of his profession and in life.
He reverenced God for helping him surmount the challenges that came his way while in service, just as he appreciated the support of several staff who worked with him all the way.
The event saw the forum of permanent secretaries, the Oyo Descendants Forum, staff of various departments of the state Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey and Urban Development present various gifts to appreciate the retired Surveyor General.
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