By Ayo Olowu

Top Government Functionaries, professional colleagues, friends and family members on Monday extolled the numerous virtues of the retired Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Mrs. Oyinlola Amuda as she bowed out of service after thirty-five meritorious years.

The glamorous event held at the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) House, along Igbatoro Road, Akure also coincided with the sixty years birthday celebrations of the erudite educationist.

The dignitaries showered encomiums on Mrs. Amuda for her mmense contributions to the growth and development of the state’s education sector in particular and Ondo State in general.

Speaking at the event, the Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Prince Boye Ologbese commended Mrs. Amuda for the various brilliant roles she played in the implementation of the programmes initiated by the Ministry.

Ologbese equally lauded the celebrant for her concerted efforts at coordinating the staff of the Ministry towards achieving its overall mandate.

While wishing Mrs. Amuda a happy birthday and retirement, the Commissioner extended the goodwills of the Ministry’s development partners to her.

In his speech, Ondo State Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Phillips noted that the array of serving and retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries that graced the event is a testimony of the exemplary leadership qualities of Mrs. Amuda.

Phillips affirmed that the State Governor, Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the public service of Ondo State is proud of the celebrant.

While describing her as outstanding in all ramifications and a confluence of humility and dignity, the Head of Service urged Mrs. Amuda to continue to contribute her maximum quota to the growth and development of Ondo State even in retirement.

The Chairman of the Forum of Permanent Secretaries in Ondo State, Chief Bunmi Alade said Mrs. Lola Amuda has carved a niche for herself among serving and retired permanent secretaries in Ondo State.

Alade who is also the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development added that the celebrant is a point of reference in issues relating to commitment and dedication to duties.

Responding, Mrs. Amuda appreciated God for giving her the grace to retire in good health and attaining the diamond age of sixty.

She also expressed gratitude to Prince Ologbese, staff of the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations and staff of other Ministries she had worked for the confidence reposed in her and for according her a befitting retirement and birthday celebrations.