The Chairman, Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Mr Samuel Abejide, has expressed appreciation to God for making his 79th birthday anniversary a success.
He also appreciated the efforts of those who contributed one way or the other to ensure that all went well during the event held in his home town, Ipao-Ekiti.
In a statement in Ado-Ekiti, Abejide said the cooperation and support by the people contributed in no small measure to the success of the event, which also witnessed the empowerment of women and aged in Ikole Ekiti.
The LGSC chairman particularly thanked the Governor, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who appointed him to supervise the local government commission, for his support.
Mr Abejide extended his heartfelt appreciation to commissioners, special advisers, National and state Assemblies members, and other political leaders who graced the occasion, for their support.
“I want to appreciate the Governor, His Excellency, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Commissioner for Health, the DG, National Automotive Design and Development Council, Bode Oluwafemi; ALGON leaders, Otunba Lekan Oyebanji, Abejide Political Dynasty, Abejide Youth Dynasty, Body of Permanent Secretaries; PS LGSC, PS PTAD and PS Loans Board for their support in ensuring a successful celebration.”
He added: “I will also like to acknowledge the support the Body of Executive Secretaries, HLAs and directors in the Local Government Service Commission, including many others, such as Barrister Odunayo Ayemi, APC Women leaders in Ikole, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe; and entire staff and management of the Local Government Service Commission.”
Earlier, a surprise birthday celebration was held at the LGSC secretariat, where the commission’s workforce showered encomiums on the chairman for his outstanding contributions to the welfare of staff and development of the local government system in Ekiti State.
Speaking on behalf of the staff, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Mr. Emmanuel Falade, praised Chief Abejide for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers.
He highlighted recent milestones, such as the establishment of a sick bay at the commission and the revival of retirement celebration for local government retirees.
Also speaking, the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLAs), through the HLA of General Administration Department, Mr. Adedayo Famisa, congratulated the celebrant and prayed for more years of sound health and impactful service.
The Body of Executive Secretaries, represented by Mr. Adelupo, added their voices to the celebration, commending the chairman for his exemplary leadership and selfless service.
The Permanent Secretary, Loans Board, Mr. Rotimi Akomolede, who spoke on behalf of the Body of Permanent Secretaries, said Chief Abejide is worthy of celebration for his distinguished career and excellence as a political office holder.
Comrade Segun Onaade, who spoke on behalf of the other commissioners at the commission, also joined others in eulogising the celebrant.
He described Chief Abejide as a man of humility and courage whose leadership has opened new frontiers of progress and opportunity for the local government system in Ekiti State.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission, Mrs. Titilayo Toba-Ojo, extolled Chief Abejide’s team spirit and dedication, describing him as an enigmatic leader whose achievements have deeply endeared him to the staff, management, and the larger community.
In his response, Chief Abejide expressed profound gratitude to the management and staff for the honour. He said the love and cooperation he had received from the workforce had inspired him to remain committed to public service.
He said he would continue to dedicate efforts to improving the quality of local government administration and urged staff to remain proactive and be devoted to the discharge of their duties.
The event featured music, goodwill messages, and prayers, making it a day to remember in the annals of the commission.
