Ifede Urges Unity and Better Service Delivery at SUBEB Birthday Celebration

The management and staff of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) have celebrated the birthday of the Board’s Executive Chairman, Evangelist Joshua Olalekan Ifede, at a surprise gathering in Abeokuta.

The celebration, held on Monday at SUBEB’s Conference Room in Oke-Mosan, provided an opportunity for staff and colleagues to commend the Chairman’s leadership and contributions to the Board. In response, Ifede thanked them for the gesture and pledged to continue working to improve staff welfare.

He announced that a committee would be established to ensure that every staff member is recognised and celebrated on their birthday. Ifede said birthdays were an opportunity to give thanks to God for the gift of life, and encouraged staff to practise kindness, humility, faithfulness and mutual respect, regardless of their positions.

The Chairman also stressed the importance of effective monitoring and appropriate systems in strengthening service delivery. He thanked staff for their support, offered prayers for them and urged them to remain patient, trust in God and uphold good character.

Ifede commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for facilitating access to Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) counterpart funds through 2026. He said the achievement had helped strengthen Ogun SUBEB’s standing among similar boards nationwide.

Permanent Member IV, Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun, described Ifede as a visionary leader, team player and role model with a strong understanding of basic education administration. He said the Chairman was responsive to staff needs and prayed for his long life and prosperity.

Ex-Officio Member Hon. Adewale Adeogun also praised Ifede, describing him as a caring and responsive leader who served as a father figure to staff.

Speaking on behalf of the Headteacher-General, Egba Division Headteacher-General Mrs. Folake Onabajo called Ifede a visionary leader and role model, wishing him continued success. Director of Management Services Mr. Remi Kovobau, representing the directors, said the Chairman was widely appreciated and conveyed their birthday wishes.

TPL Ayoola, representing the Conference of Education Secretaries of Local Government Education Authorities, commended Ifede’s leadership and positive impact. Staff representative Mrs. Temitope Bamgboye likewise described him as a caring leader who prioritised staff welfare.

Earlier, Board Secretary Mrs. Olubunmi Oso welcomed guests and thanked God for preserving the Chairman’s life. She praised his commitment, teamwork and leadership, saying his approach had fostered unity, cooperation and goodwill among staff.

The celebration featured a cultural performance, gifts from staff, friends and associates, and prayers for the celebrant by Christian and Muslim clerics.