It was a day of joy, honour, and reflection as Hon. Fakorede Idowu Adisa, a respected teacher, politician, and community leader celebrated his 35 years statutory retirement from the teaching profession in Abeokuta North Local Government.
Speaking at the event held in Abeokuta Saturday, Hon. Fakorede expressed deep gratitude to God for sustaining him through the challenges of his career.
According to him, the journey was far from easy, but “endurance was the only thing that made the journey smooth for me. The road was rough from the beginning, but thank God He saw me through.”
Reflecting on his achievements in the education sector, the retired teacher recalled his commitment to improving standards in Abeokuta North local government.
He noted that he monitored all 86 primary schools in the local government during his tenure and ensured that necessary corrections were made to strengthen the quality of primary education.
He also highlighted his contributions as a councellor and as a two-time monitoring officer.
Hon. Fakorede also decried the challenges facing the teaching profession, particularly inadequate staffing due to retirements without replacements.
He however commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for introducing the Ogun Teach initiative, which has helped to fill vacancies across schools in the state.
“The government before this didn’t address the issue, but kudos to the present governor,” he said.
On his political journey, Hon. Fakorede recounted his service as a councillor between 1996–1997 representing Ward 13 Olorunda , his appointment as a monitoring officer in 2000 under former Governor Olusegun Osoba, and later as Special Adviser on Community and Social Development during Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s administration.
He emphasized that he does not struggle for political positions but accepts whatever role he is called upon to play.
In his remarks, The Deputy Chief Whip of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Prince Babatunde Tella, described Hon. Fakorede as a loyal friend and a committed community leader. He noted that despite having an important engagement in Ilaro, he chose to honour Fakorede because of the strong support he received from him during campaigns. “He is jovial, kind-hearted, and deeply loves Oke-Gun community,” Tella said while wishing him more years in good health.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Governor’s Liaison Officer in Abeokuta North, Hon. Wale Bello, praised the celebrant’s work ethic, stating that his achievements were a product of dedication and integrity.
Bello advised public servants nearing retirement to prepare ahead and avoid becoming idle after service.
Hon. Fakorede, while giving further words of wisdom, urged teachers still in active service to remain committed, disciplined, and patient, stressing that endurance is key to success.
He also advised community leaders to place the right people in the right positions and encouraged youths to continue supporting those who are doing well.
The celebration also featured a lecture delivered by Pastor Samuel Gbenga Beckley of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, who admonished the celebrant and all retirees to embrace a new phase of purposeful living.
He explained that retirement is a period to “look back and build for the extended family,” noting that decisions made at this stage of life carry greater weight and should be taken with wisdom.
Pastor Beckley urged Hon. Fakorede to draw even closer to God, saying, “This is the time to have more time for God and deepen your relationship with Him.”
The ceremony ended on a celebratory note as friends, colleagues, political associates, and community members rejoiced with the distinguished teacher who devoted 35 years to building future leaders and contributing immensely to education and community development in Abeokuta North.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including a veteran broadcast journalist, Gbenga Adebayo - Oladunni , popularly called "Imalian Boy", Leader of the Legislative Arm of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Moruf Erubami, the Deputy Leader, Hon. Waheed Akomolafe Ajani, and legislators such as Hon. Luqman Adeogun, Hon. Olusola Victor, and Hon. Akeem Folorunsho Ajani, among others, who graced the occasion to celebrate the veteran educator.
