Information Officers in Ekiti State have paid glowing tributes to the Director of Newsroom in the State Ministry of Information, Mr. Abiodun Olajide, at a valedictory editorial meeting organised in honour of his retirement from the Ekiti State Civil Service.
Mr. Olajide officially retires on Monday after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60, bringing to a close 28 years of dedicated service. The event provided an opportunity for colleagues, professional associates and friends to reflect on his remarkable contributions to government communication, media practice and staff development.
Speaking at the gathering, the Director of Information Services, Mr. Tope Babalola, described the retiring director as an exemplary public servant whose career was marked by professionalism, integrity and unwavering commitment to duty. He noted that Olajide consistently demonstrated diligence, responsibility and exceptional editorial judgment throughout his years of service.
Babalola recalled that Olajide played a key role in promoting government policies and programmes through public enlightenment broadcasts, including Ekiti State Update/Ìtẹ̀síwájú Ìpínlẹ̀ Èkìtì and Feedback on Government Developmental Activities, which aired on radio and television stations across the state for nearly two decades. According to him, the programmes strengthened communication between the government and the people by providing timely and accurate information on public policies and developmental initiatives.
He also highlighted Olajide’s contribution to the production of the government’s flagship television programme, Ekiti on the Move, noting that his editorial expertise, attention to detail and wealth of experience greatly enhanced the programme’s quality and credibility.
Describing him as a mentor and team player, Babalola said the retiring director invested significantly in nurturing younger Information Officers through guidance, patience and knowledge sharing, leaving behind a legacy of excellence within the ministry. He added that Olajide’s integrity and commitment would continue to inspire officers in the Information Services Department.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, Comrade O’Seun Ogunsakin, praised Olajide for his leadership qualities and mentorship, saying he had raised a new generation of competent officers capable of sustaining the standards he established.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, Comrade Wale Obelewaji, described the celebrant’s career as one defined by dedication, excellence and selfless service. He commended Olajide for leading with humility and inspiring colleagues through exemplary conduct.
Several directors and Information Officers who had worked closely with the retiring director also paid heartfelt tributes, recalling his discipline, professionalism and positive influence on the ministry.
Speaking on behalf of the Information Officers, Mr. Abiodun Olofe of the Office of the Wife of the Governor described Olajide as a principled administrator who upheld high ethical and professional standards throughout his career.
Responding, Mr. Olajide expressed gratitude to God for a fulfilling career in the civil service and thanked his family, colleagues and the Ekiti State Government for their support over the years.
He attributed his successful career to teamwork, discipline, commitment and divine guidance. While seeking forgiveness from anyone he might have offended in the course of duty, he stressed that every decision he took was guided by professionalism and due process.
The retiring director also encouraged Information Officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to integrity, excellence, hard work and faithful service to the public.
The event formed part of the Ministry’s tradition of celebrating retiring officers for their outstanding contributions to public service and institutional development. Similar retirement ceremonies have been held by the Ekiti State Ministry of Information to recognise long-serving officials for their dedication and impact on the state’s public communication system
