CELEBRATION OF SERVICE: ONDO CENTRAL’S TUTOR GENERAL, ADEBIMPE OWOKA, BOWS OUT AFTER 35 DISTINGUISHED YEARS
The Tutor General of Ondo Central Senatorial District, Mrs Adedamilola Owoka, has officially retired from active civil service after a distinguished 35-year career in the education sector.
Her retirement, which coincides with her 60th birthday, was marked with heartfelt tributes, celebrations, and commendations from education stakeholders, religious leaders, colleagues, family, and well-wishers.
The event, held at St. Louis Girls’ Grammar School, Ondo, brought together key dignitaries including senior government officials, educationist, members of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) officials, and representatives from religious and academic institutions.
A CAREER DEFINED BY DEDICATION AND IMPACT
In her tribute, TESCOM Administrative Secretary, Mrs Morayo Bayo-Philip, described Mrs Owoka as “industrious, meticulous, and deeply passionate about her work,” noting her commitment to overseeing secondary schools across six local government areas— Ondo West, Ondo East, Akure South, Akure North, Idanre, and Ifedore.
“Mrs Owoka was constantly on the move, encouraging principals, teachers, and students alike,” she said.
“Her shoes will be hard to fill, both figuratively and literally,” she added, playfully encouraging future successors to “hit the gym” in order to keep up with the physical demands of the role.
The celebrant officially signed out from her role at about 1PM after responding to a set of formal inquiries, drawing admiration from attendees for her sharpness and grace under pressure.
HONOURING A LIFE OF SELFLESS SERVICE
Chairman of the occasion and former Administrative Secretary of the Ondo State Scholarship Board, Pastor Ademola Olowomuwagun, commended the retiring TG for her resilience in the face of professional pressures.
“She has run her course honourably,” he said, noting that retirement is not just an end but a moment of reflection and renewal— a time to retreat and rejuvenate.”
Other TGs in attendance, including Pastor Adedayo Sanmi (Ondo North) and Mrs Ashogbon, similarly prayed for the same grace to finish their careers gloriously.
ANCOPS representatives also paid glowing tributes, recognising Mrs Owoka’s leadership and legacy. “Your unwavering commitment and wisdom have left an indelible mark on Ondo State’s educational landscape,” said the ANCOPSS Ondo Chairman.
“Throughout your illustrious career, you have demonstrated a profound dedication to the noble course of education, shaping minds and transforming futures. Your selfless devotion to mentorship and education has touched countless lives and your influence will continue to resonate with us, especially the numerous individuals you have guided and mentored,” he further added.
A WOMAN OF FAITH, FAMILY, AND FORTITUDE
In a touching segment, Dr. Samuel Ogunniyi, Polytechnic Librarian, Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, hailed Mrs Owoka as a courageous woman who raised her children single-handedly following the death of her husband, Pastor Olasehinde Owoka. Singing in their native Ute dialect, he prayed for continued blessings in her retirement.
Also paying tribute was her sister-in-law, Ms Dupe, who praised Mrs Owoka for her kindness and dedication to family, especially in caring for her mother-in-law.
Religious tributes were led by Dr Dayo Olofinika who represented the Deeper Life Bible Church, and described the celebrant as a humble, God-fearing leader committed to mentoring children within the church. “Despite her status, she actively participated in children’s choir practice and demonstrated servant leadership,” he said.
FAMILY LEGACY AND PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
Family members, including her children and brother, offered emotional reflections. Her son, Mr Seye Owoka, an educationist, described his mother as a disciplined and purpose-driven woman.
“She taught us the values of time, order, and integrity. She is truly a woman of substance— so strong, I often call her ‘a man in a woman’s body.’”
Her brother, Mr Adesoyoju Adeayo, appreciated God for her safety during her years of travelling across volatile areas in the line of duty.
“I thank God for protection during years of travel between local government areas in spite of national insecurity, he said.”
The event included a surprise choral rendition from her children and performances by her grandchildren, as they celebrated her attributes alphabetically, in a tribute that brought smiles.
EXHORTATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE FUTURE
In a solemn closing message, Pastor Sola Akinkunmi urged the celebrant not to see retirement as an end, but a transition. “Don’t retire from life,” he said. “The heart, body, and spirit must stay active. Keep moving, or risk stagnation.”
He called on the celebrant to explore new paths of impact, stressing that retirement can be a launchpad for greater personal fulfilment and community service.
AN ENDURING LEGACY IN EDUCATION
Born on 6 August 1965, Mrs Owoka began her journey in Lagos before attending St Louis Secondary School, Ondo, and later Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) where she earned a BSc in Biology Education.
She began teaching in Okeluse Anglican Grammar School, later serving in Ifon Comprehensive High School, Word of Faith College, and other institutions.
She rose through the ranks to become principal and ultimately, Tutor General of Ondo Central, appointed on 16 August 2024. She served with distinction and received several accolades including the Mary Slessor Women of Peace Award by UN-POLAC.
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A GRATEFUL FAREWELL
In her final remarks, the celebrant thanked God and all who stood by her throughout her career. She encouraged educators to remain steadfast.
“Continue to build lives, prepare them for eternity, and let love, peace, and unity prevail,” she said.
The event which was gracefully moderated by Dr Taiwo Falowo concluded with the presentation of gifts, photographs, and warm farewells from old students, neighbours, well wishers and education stakeholders.
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