Teachers Are Shapers, Beacons Of Society; Deserve Lifelong Support, Says Rev. Canon ‘Bola Odunlami (+photos)

…Congratulates Comrade Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare For Completing 35 Years Of Service To Humanity

IKENNE-REMO – The Vicar of Our Saviour Church in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, Reverend Canon ‘Bola Odunlami has emphasized the vital role of teachers in molding and enlightening the society.

Rev’d. Odunlami who also advocated for the provision of comprehensive welfare packages for teachers, both during their active service and after retirement stated this on Friday, August 25, 2023, during his sermon at the modest event honouring Comrade Gladys Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare, who retired as the Head Teacher of St. Saviour Primary School I, Ikenne, Ogun State, following 35 years of commendable service with the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

In his sermon, Odunlami lauded the Ogun State government for its efforts in enhancing the livelihoods of teachers within the state, including prompt salary payments and timely gratuity and pension disbursements to retirees.

He stated, “We must acknowledge both past and present governments in Ogun State for acknowledging the significance of teachers, ensuring punctual salary payments, as well as fulfilling commitments to retirees’ pensions and gratuities.”

Odunlami also used the occasion to appeal to various governments across the country, particularly in Ogun State, to consistently prioritize the well-being of teachers, including retired individuals who have dedicated themselves to the state’s service.

He emphasized the importance of timely pension and gratuity payments, suggesting that some retirees have passed away before receiving what they are owed.

The cleric commended the Ogun State government for addressing overdue payments owed to workers, especially educators, and urged civil servants to approach their duties with dedication, transparency, and integrity.

Regardless of the scale of their remuneration, Odunlami urged workers to perform their tasks diligently and appreciate the opportunity for employment.

Revd. Odunlami extended his felicitations to Comrade Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare for her 35 years of dedicated service to humanity and offered prayers for her prosperous retirement and continued well-being.

During the event, various individuals shared their thoughts and messages of appreciation:

Former Head Teacher of St. Saviour Primary School, Ikenne, Comrade A.O. Idowu, who has now retired, praised Comrade Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare as a dedicated and hardworking staff member.

Idowu recounted their time working together, highlighting Hamed-Enobakhare’s selflessness and commitment to her responsibilities.

He described her as an embodiment of humility and a devout Christian with qualities worth emulating.

Mr. J.O. Oduneye, former Chairman, National Association of Primary School Games And Sport Teachers (NAPSGAST), commended Hamed-Enobakhare for her substantial contributions and unwavering dedication throughout her service.

Mrs. A.A. Yusuf-Dania, a teacher under Hamed-Enobakhare, expressed gratitude for her kindness and understanding, seeing her as a role model to emulate.

Comrade C.P. Uturu, Head Teacher of FOMWAN Primary School II, Ogere, Ikenne local government, lauded Hamed-Enobakhare’s successful completion of her service at SUBEB.

She attested to Hamed-Enobakhare’s pleasant demeanor and dedication, offering prayers for her continued blessings and protection.

Mrs. M.A. Talabi, a teacher at St. Saviour Primary School I, Ikenne, welcomed guests and praised Hamed-Enobakhare for her teaching excellence and motivating qualities.

She recounted Hamed-Enobakhare’s career trajectory, from starting as a teacher in 1988 to completing her 35 years of service at St. Saviour Primary School I & II, Ikenne.

In her response, Comrade Hamed-Enobakhare expressed deep gratitude to God for His presence throughout her career and family life.

She acknowledged both the challenges and successes of her 35 years in service, giving credit to God for her journey.
Hamed-Enobakhare extended her appreciation to the teachers, students, and parents for their support during her tenure as Head Teacher.

She wished the school, teachers, and students continued success and a bright future.

Mr. Femi Ali conveyed gratitude to the teachers of St. Saviour Primary School I & II, Ikenne-Remo, for their unwavering support to Hamed-Enobakhar.

He announced that a Thanksgiving Service for the retiree would take place on Friday, September 29, 2023, at the Methodist Church on Old Ilishan Road, Ikenne-Remo, followed by a reception at the St. Saviour Primary School playing field, Ikenne-Remo.

Elhadj (Otunba) AbuSatar Idowu Hamed expressed the family’s gratitude to God for his spouse’s successful retirement despite life’s challenges.

The Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa also extended appreciation to the teachers, students, and parents for their support to Comrade Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare, and prayed for peaceful retirements for those still in service.

The event, fondly referred to as “Pen Down,” took place at St. Saviour Primary School in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, and it was graced by a gathering of both active and retired teachers from both within and outside the Ikenne local government area.

It was a celebration of Comrade Olubode Hamed-Enobakhare’s impressive contributions to education and the community over her distinguished career.

Notable attendees included Comrade A.O. Idowu, Comrade Ogunbamowo, Comrade Ifonlaja, Comrade Uturu, Mrs. Ajabu, Mrs. Odumusi, Mr. Oduneye, Mr. Lasisi, Prince Adebanjo, Mrs. D.M. Awoyomi, Miss Tope Sonaike, Mr. Sulaimon Oladapo, Mrs. Susannah Balogun, as well as the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Executive Committee led by Alhaji Solesi, Mr. Femi & Mrs. Alaba Ali, Mrs. Deola Okwodu and members from St. Saviour Primary School I & II, Ikenne-Remo.

The event was skillfully emceed by the proficient duo of Mr. Odetola Oluseyi and Mrs. Cletus A.M. Guests were treated to captivating cultural songs and dances performance by teachers from St. Saviour Primary School I, Ikenne-Remo.

The atmosphere was further enhanced by the melodious tunes of the T-Sax Band, which provided an exhilarating musical performance that left the guests enchanted and moved.