Kunle Adelabu
As the retirement ceremonies continue for the outgoing Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Anike Adekanye, the Lagos State Education District II staged a historic celebration of 10 major achievements and projects in commemoration of the ongoing retirement.
On the ground at the event on Wednesday, tagged 10-in-1 Special Commissioning Ceremony, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu was the Mother of the Day.
The grand event showcased the district’s sustained commitment to excellence and innovation in public education. Among the projects commissioned were a Staff Clinic, a District Fitness Gym, a District Hall of Fame, a Free Medical Screening Initiative for teachers, and the TG/PS Free Lunch Initiative.
Other highlights of the ceremony included the recognition and official reception of Best Public School Administrator in Nigeria, Mr. Bello Oladimeji Akeem, Best Junior Public Secondary School in Nigeria (Eva Adelaja Girls’ Junior School), Official Commissioning of District Office Annex, Cultural Centre and District Library.
The Staff Clinic was officially commissioned by the First Lady, while the Staff Wellness Centre was unveiled by the Head of Service.
Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Mrs. Funmi Omotoso, in her inspiring address, commended the exceptional leadership of Mrs. Adekanye. She described the event as “a shining example of purposeful leadership and innovation in public education” and lauded the district for its remarkable achievements in academic excellence, extracurricular engagement, and infrastructural development.
“The commissioning of 10 major projects in a single day is truly remarkable,” she said. “It underscores what is possible when leadership is deliberate, passionate, and deeply interested in shaping a brighter future for our children, teachers, and the education system as a whole.”
The commendation continued,
“These projects demonstrate a profound understanding of the interconnection between health, education, and social well-being. It also aligns perfectly with the THEMES Plus Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.”
The First Lady further emphasised the importance of continued investment in the education sector, stating that “A healthy teacher is a productive teacher,” and added that,“Education flourishes in tandem with physical and mental well-being.”
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Honourable Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun, congratulated Mrs. Adekanye on her meritorious service and praised her legacy, which earned the Award of Best Outstanding Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary.
He also highlighted the donation of laboratory equipment to 58 schools across the district as a noteworthy achievement, urging both students and teachers to make proper use of the facilities and ensure their proper maintenance.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, extolled Mrs. Adekanye’s nurturing and compassionate leadership, describing her as “A welfarist with a good heart and a powerful aura that draws people to her — a virtue most people do not possess.”
Students with outstanding performances at Ewi redition and Yorùbá Spelling Bee (ABD Olowe), were also presented with gifts.
Other dignitaries present at the occasion included the Chairman, Lagos State Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, ably represented by the Permanent Secretary, TESCOM, Mrs. Adebopo Oyekan-Ismaila, Tutor-General/Permanent Secretaries from other Education Districts, the Permanent Secretary, Health District II, Dr. Dayo Lajide, as well as school principals and students across the district.
