By Timothy Ifeoluwa
The Kwara State Commissioner for Sports and Youths Development, Hon Muideen Alalade said the footprints of the retiring Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Elder Ayobola Samuel (JP) will never be forgotten.
Alalade made the remarks yesterday during the send forth ceremony for Samuel JP at the ministry after 35 years of meritorious service.
Samuel who is one of the most experienced and longest serving permanent secretaries in the state having served in no fewer than eight ministries from October 24, 2007 retired on October 4, 2018.
“The journey of 35 years is not an easy one, particularly in a service where you are dealing with people of diverse culture and background.
“Looking back, Elder Ayobola Samuel will definitely not be forgotten in a hurry how he was able to weather the storm through the various challenges.
“An author once said that difficulties in life are intended to make us better but not bitter. More so, to the only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be. I whole heartedly join other staff of the ministry to congratulate you and wish you well as you move into the next phase of your life,” the Commissioner said.
In his speech, the celebrant appreciated the Commissioner and staff of the ministry for the honour saying, “I am living you peacefully but before I go I must say I am one of the most favoured civil servants in this state because I came in just like others and to me 35 years looks like it will not end.”
Elder Samuel appreciated God for his grace and for giving me good health, adding that “there are many of us that we start together but some died along the way and some became incapacitated. I served for 35 years and as Permanent Secretary for eight different ministries,” he said while also expressing gratitude to his wife and family.
He advised civil servants to be truthful and committed to the system because bosses will come and go but the system will remain the same.
Among dignitaries present were; the Commissioner for Environment, Hon Amos Justus Sayo, his Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Isiaka Abasa Al-Amin, Senior Special Assistant on Youth Affairs to the Governor, Alhaji Zakariyah Babatunde, President of Kwara United FC, Chief Oladimeji Thompson, Director of Sports Council, coach Babatunde Kazeem and a member of the Kwara House of Assembly, Hon Ibrahim Owosile.
