Ekiti State Head of Service, Folakemi Olomojobi, has lauded the retired Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities , Engr. Olumide Ajayi, for his exceptional contributions during his 35 years in the State Civil Service
stressing that the retired accounting officer would be remembered for his excellent track record while in Service.
Speaking in Ado-Ekiti during the pen-down ceremony organized in honour of the retired permanent secretary, the Head of Service described Engr. Ajayi as an embodiment of intellect. competence, commitment, and dedication.
She added that Ajayi consistently inspired others to deliver on government policies and contributed immensely to improving the system.
Olomojobi urged stakeholders to emulate the virtues of the retiring Permanent Secretary while encouraging him to continue to mentor and guide the younger generation
In his goodwill message, a former Commissioner in the ministry,Professor Mobolaji Aluko described Engr. Ajayi as hardworking and a thoroughbred professional who understands his duties perfectly.
Aluko appreciated the immense contributions of the retired permanent secretary to the ministry during the years they worked together pledging that their bond of brotherhood and friendship would continue after his retirement.
The former Head of Service and current Special Adviser on Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, described Engr. Ajayi as a man who has impacted many lives and consistently delivered results.
She referred to him as a man of great potentials and an active administrator, adding that “if a book were to be written about his achievements, it would be voluminous.”
Mrs Babafemi prayed that the retired Permanent Secretary continues to be a blessing to his family and community.
In his goodwill message,former Head of Service in the State , Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi, advised the Head of Service to continually identify and engage the services of giants like Ajayi that are retiring in the civil service for public service orientation programmes, so that the upcoming generation can benefit from their wealth of experience.
Another former Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Akomolafe, also reflected on their years together as colleagues.
He described Engr. Ajayi as a gentle man, disciplined, and committed, a man who stands by his convictions and always follows his direction that we give him results.
A member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieme, who is representing the retired permanent secretary’s constituency in the State House of Assembly described him as a man of honour and a pride to the Ilejemeje community.
She prayed that as he concludes this phase of his life, he steps into new opportunities and higher grounds.
Earlier in his opening remarks the General Manager of the State Water and Sanitation Regulatory Agency who spoke on behalf of the Ministry, Engr. Ayodele Osalade commended Engr. Ajayi’s exemplary leadership style and the significant progress recorded under him, especially in the areas of policy implementation, infrastructure development, water supply, Sanitation , Hygiene and public utilities management.
He noted that younger officers would continue to emulate his passion for service delivery and uphold his enduring legacy of professionalism, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to the growth of the state.
In his response, Engr. Olumide Ajayi reflected on his years in service, describing the journey as tasking but fulfilling.
He said the day could have been one of celebration to freedom, but the overwhelming show of love made it an emotional moment for him.
The retired permanent secretary urged civil servants to remain committed and impactful in their various units, stressing that there is still much work to be done .
He called on them to give their best to maintain a functional and efficient system.
Engr. Ajayi appreciated the State Government under the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for being responsive and committed to the shared prosperity agenda that is making life more meaningful and abundant for the people of the State.