EDUCATION DISTRICT V CELEBRATES TG/PS ANIKE ADEKANYE’S RETIREMENT IN STYLE

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In a colorful and heartfelt ceremony filled with cultural flair and tributes, Education District V hosted a grand retirement celebration in honor of Mrs. Amdalat Anike Adekanye, the esteemed Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary (TG/PS) of Education District II and former TG/PS of District V. The event brought together top stakeholders from Lagos State’s education sector to celebrate her outstanding career and enduring legacy in public service and education.

In his touching keynote, Mr. Dauda Hassan Abiodun, TG/PS of District V, described Mrs. Adekanye as “a go-getter, an exceptional administrator, and a leader admired by all.” Quoting Shakespeare, he noted, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. Mrs. Adekanye achieved hers through sheer determination and excellence.”

He highlighted her many accomplishments—producing a 1-Day Governor, Deputy Governor, and House Speaker in 2017; securing four out of 12 awards at the 2020 Lagos Teachers’ Merit Awards; and producing Nigeria’s Best Senior Secondary Teacher that same year.

He also emphasized her unique ability to successfully manage two education districts at different times and recalled her remarkable feat of visiting 136 schools within six months of her appointment in October 2016.

Mr. Abiodun pledged to build on the foundation she laid, focusing on improved student performance, teacher welfare, and a more enabling learning environment—with support from Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, and Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun.

Members of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) paid glowing tributes. Mr. Adeoni described her as “steadfast, supportive, and a game-changer. The Amazon of our time.” Mr. Abayomi Adegunle, speaking for retired principals, noted that despite never serving directly under her, Mrs. Adekanye treated everyone with warmth and respect. “She is a trailblazing administrator with humility and generosity,” he said.

Other ANCOPPS leaders echoed similar sentiments, praising her integrity and selfless service.

The event also showcased rich cultural expressions. Mrs. Adekanye was welcomed by the revered Zangbeto masquerade, symbolizing high honor. Students thrilled the audience with colorful performances from Ogu, Yoruba, and Igbo cultures, including Ewi and Oriki poetry, celebrating her strength and maternal legacy.

One speaker captured the mood: “Today is not for speeches, but for encomiums. We celebrate an icon—our very own Oluomo of education.”

In her emotional address, Mrs. Adekanye expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and attendees.

“Words can’t fully express my gratitude. I am deeply honored and touched by this grand celebration. My thanks to Mr. Dauda Hassan Abiodun and his team for this unforgettable recognition.”

She credited her success to God’s grace, the support of her superiors, and the commitment of the staff she worked with. Urging those still in service to keep striving for excellence, she said, “This celebration is a testament to God’s faithfulness in my life.”

“To all educators, current and future: lead with compassion, serve with integrity, and keep learning,” she advised.

She praised Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr. Hamzat, and Commissioner Ali-Balogun for their commitment to education in Lagos State.

Finally, she gave heartfelt thanks to her husband, Hon. Oladele Adekanye, and their children for their unwavering support throughout her career.