Comrade Stephen Olusesan Aderonmu, who served as an Internal Auditor in the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, has officially retired after a distinguished 35-year career. A send-forth celebration, organized by the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Oke-Ogun Forum, was held to honor his unwavering commitment and contributions to the Commission. Friends, family, and colleagues gathered at the Kajola Local Government Secretariat for the event, where tributes poured in for the well-respected auditor.
The guest speaker for the occasion, Comrade Jide Akinlotan, a retired Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA) in the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, highlighted the significance of Aderonmu’s career, expressing gratitude for his dedication and achievements. Reflecting on the nature of retirement, Akinlotan encouraged Aderonmu and the gathering to view retirement positively: “Retirement is not a death sentence but a time for enjoyment,” he said, urging his friend to embrace this next chapter as a reward for his hard work and service.
In his address, the Executive Chairman of Kajola Local Government, Honorable Akeem Olawale Mustapha, commended Aderounmu’s character and achievements, describing him as a role model in public service. Mustapha urged other employees to emulate Aderounmu’s virtues and advised serving civil servants to begin planning for their own retirement.
The program featured a series of tributes from prominent figures in the local government union, each sharing their admiration for Aderonmu’s integrity and dedication. Comrade Barrister Sikirulahi Bayo Titilola Sodo, the Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Labour Matters, praised Aderonmu’s commitment, describing him as a model of diligence and integrity within the Commission. Sodo highlighted that Aderonmu’s professionalism and work ethic had left an indelible mark on his colleagues and the Commission as a whole.
Comrade Rufus Babalola, representing National Young Workers, echoed these sentiments and commended Aderonmu’s influence on young union members. He noted that Aderonmu’s mentorship and dedication had inspired a new generation of workers in the union. Comrade Waheed Opatayo, the State NULGE Welfare Officer who represented the NULGE State President Ayobami Adeogun, also spoke highly of Aderonmu’s influence, calling him a “pillar of support” within the local government workforce.
Adding their voices, Alhaji Khalid Ajibade, former State NULGE Welfare Officer, and Comrade Abass Bogunmbe, Acting HLGA in the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, shared warm tributes that acknowledged Aderonmu’s positive impact on his colleagues and his dedication to the union’s values.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NULGE Oke-Ogun Forum, who also serves as the NULGE Chairman for Saki West Local Government, lauded Aderonmu’s character and dedication, noting that his influence within the union and local government had been profound. “The forum counted on Comrade Aderonmu’s virtues, and that is why we organized this send-forth to celebrate his achievements,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to making the celebration possible.
In his heartfelt remarks, Comrade Aderonmu expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and celebration of his service. He thanked his colleagues, family, and friends for their ongoing support, attributing his successful career to the encouragement and solidarity he received throughout the years. Reflecting on his years of service, Aderonmu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his community and pledged to remain an active supporter of the union and its efforts, even in retirement.
The event was attended by notable figures from across the local government union. Among the dignitaries were Comrade Adelodun Wasiu Atilade, NULGE State Auditor; Comrade Salaudeen Ibrahim Olaiya, former Caretaker Chairman of state NULGE; Comrade Waheed Olanrewaju, former State NULGE Auditor; NULGE Chairmen from various Oke-Ogun local governments; former NULGE local government chairmen; clergymen; and other well-wishers.
The event concluded with a reception where attendees celebrated Aderonmu’s achievements and contributions, wishing him health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years ahead.
