EDUCATION DISTRICT II CELEBRATES CAROL FESTIVAL AS TG/PS MRS ADEKANYE NEARS RETIREMENT

Lagos, Dec. 11, 2024 – Festivities reached their peak as Lagos State Education District II, led by Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary Mrs. Anike Adekanye, celebrated its annual Christmas Carol and Nine Lessons service at the Immaculate School Hall, Maryland.

The event was a joyous blend of music, reflection, and heartfelt tributes, marking both the season’s spirit and Mrs. Adekanye’s imminent retirement after an impactful career.

The carol service, centered around the story of Christ’s birth, featured nine Bible readings delivered by directors, principals, and vice principals of the district.

The atmosphere was filled with joy as students and staff performed a range of carols, including a remarkable showcase inspired by South African culture.

The students’ colorful costumes and energetic renditions captivated the audience, while a standout solo saxophone performance and an electric band had the crowd on their feet, dancing in high spirits.

As the event also marked the twilight of her illustrious career, Mrs. Adekanye expressed her gratitude and pride. Reflecting on her tenure, she said: “To God be the glory for the great things He has done for us in Education District II. I started on a very high note, and I am happy to announce my exit on a high note because it could only be God. We’ve achieved so much through the resilience and hope God has given us. From Ikorodu to Kosofe and Somolu, managing over 200 schools, it could only be God.”

She expressed gratitude to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for fostering an enabling environment for education, noting that the district’s alignment with the THEMES+ agenda had earned students and staff numerous accolades locally and internationally.

Mrs. Adekanye used the occasion to reflect on the lessons of Christ’s birth

She said, “The birth of Christ reminds us to remain hopeful and resilient, even in tough times. Whatever challenges we may face as a state or nation, the storm will pass, and we will have cause to glorify God.”

As she prepares to retire, Mrs. Adekanye expressed deep gratitude to her colleagues and stakeholders: “I want to appreciate all directors, principals, teachers, non-teaching staff, parents, students, and community leaders for their cooperation and support. I am exiting for good, not for bad, and I urge my Education District family to continue to wax stronger.”

Students also paid glowing tributes, with performers like Abdul Wahab Mujiba and Joseph Deborah expressing their admiration for her leadership.

Victor Adekoya, another student, lauded the TG/PS for her dedication; “She has given us countless opportunities to grow and express our talents. This program, like many others she initiated, has taught us valuable lessons about Christ and inspired us to become better individuals.”

As directors, principals, staff, and students celebrated together, the event served as a testament to Mrs. Adekanye’s outstanding leadership and the strong sense of community she fostered throughout her career.

It marked a fitting farewell for a leader who has left an indelible mark on Lagos State’s education landscape.