An acclaimed educationist and Principal of CMS Senior Girls Grammar School Akoka, Lagos State, Mrs. Funmilayo Bolodeoku, recently marked her retirement from a distinguished career with a memorable celebration that coincided with her 60th birthday. The grand event, held at the prestigious Imperial Hall in Alausa, Ikeja, was a testament to her remarkable achievements and garnered attention from all in attendance.
In his welcome address, Head of Department, Science, CMS Girls’ Senior School, Dr. Ayinde Oladepo, noted that Bolodeoku’s retirement marked the culmination of over 30 years of leadership in shaping the lives of students and individuals, as well as six decades of remarkable existence on this planet.
He expressed his delight at the overwhelming turnout and the contagious enthusiasm displayed by the attendees, and highlighted the invaluable contribution of the teaching profession in nurturing human resources for national development.
During an interview with journalists, Bolodeoku humbly shared her beginnings in public service, attributing her success to perseverance, commitment, and dedication to her craft. She further attributed her productivity during her tenure to her unwavering trust in God and her relentless pursuit of excellence.
While advising her colleagues to remain steadfast and diligent in their profession, assuring them that their efforts would yield fruitful rewards in due course. The retiring educationist also took the opportunity to call upon the government to expedite the process of paying gratuities and pensions to retirees, asserting that their meticulous service to the nation warranted prompt compensation.
Barr. Adeola Adetugboboh, the National President of the school’s alumni association, lauded Bolodeoku’s commitment as a principal, expressing the sentiment that her retirement would leave a void in the institution, which had flourished under her transformative leadership.
The National President stated, “You have been the beacon that illuminated even the darkest paths—a role model deserving of emulation. Under your tenure, CMS Girls Grammar School, Akoka, Lagos transformed into a Mega School, a legacy that will forever remain ingrained in our memory. Without a doubt, you have been the epitome of an exceptional leader, and the school will not be the same without you.”
While wishing her happy birthday and wonderful retirement, the pioneer president, Class 85, and founder Parah foundation Princess, Princess Adedayo Odukoya, described the principal as hardworking, diligent, humane, a bridge builder, professional and thorough administrator, whose vacuum would be felt, but prayed that the in-coming principal would build on the legacy established by the out-going.
Prominent personalities graced the occasion are Olubunmi Onagbesa, Chairman of Somolu Zone ANCOPSS, the Vice Principal of CMS Girls Grammar School, executives from the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), and Oba Akinola Oyetade, the Royal King of Ifetedo. Reverend Dr. E.A Akinrodoye from The African Church in Ondo State delivered special prayers and a short exhortation, while guests were treated to delightful performances by a Juju musical team and a Cultural group from the school.
