It was a day of joy, reflection, and celebration as journalists, union leaders, and dignitaries gathered at Cook Memorial Baptist Church, Sanctuary of Praise, Oja Oba, Ibadan, for the retirement thanksgiving of Prince Segun Adeyemo.
The event, held in a spirit of gratitude, attracted a wide array of personalities from different walks of life who came together to honor the illustrious career and service of Prince Adeyemo, a man fondly described as humble, dedicated, and God-fearing.
Leading the pack of journalists was the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council, Chief Demola Babalola, accompanied by executives and members of the union. Their presence highlighted the strong bond of camaraderie within the journalism profession and their respect for Adeyemo’s contributions as a former vice chairman of the council.
The event was not only a thanksgiving service but also a reunion of colleagues, friends, and associates who shared fond memories of working and interacting with the celebrant. For many, it was a day to celebrate a man who had touched lives positively through his career, church service, and personal relationships.
Prince Adeyemo, who hails from Ajaawa town, Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo state, recently bowed out of active service as the Acting Head of Local Government Administration, Sooro Local Council Development Area (LCDA). His retirement marked the conclusion of a remarkable 33-year career in the Oyo State Local Government Service.
Throughout his decades of service, Adeyemo earned a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and commitment to duty. Colleagues and friends testified that he not only distinguished himself in his role but also left behind a legacy of diligence and mentorship for younger officers in the system.
Also present at the Thanksgiving service were the Chairman of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Ayobami Adeogun alongside members of the union. Their attendance underscored Adeyemo’s respected standing within the local government service.
Former Senator representing Oyo North, Hosea Agboola, was another dignitary in attendance, lending political weight to the event. The senator described Adeyemo as a rare public servant whose humility and dedication remained exemplary throughout his career.
Beyond the professional circle, members of Adeyemo’s immediate community also trooped out in large numbers. The Temidire Landlord Association, Soka, where the celebrant resides, joined family and friends to felicitate with him. Their presence was a testament to the positive impact he had within his local environment.
Well-wishers took turns to felicitate with the Adeyemo family, offering prayers for long life, good health, and continued impact. The retirement thanksgiving of Prince Segun Adeyemo will be remembered as a fitting tribute to a life of service, integrity, and faith. 
The Thanksgiving service was marked by uplifting hymns, prayers of thanksgiving, and words of encouragement from the pulpit. The atmosphere brimmed with joy as the congregation celebrated with the Adeyemo family.
Prince Adeyemo, who also serves as secretary of the church, took time to reflect on his journey in public service, describing the experience as “merciful,” noting that despite the challenges, God’s grace sustained him to serve faithfully and retire in good health.
In an emotional speech, he expressed gratitude to God for guiding him through the years, to the church for spiritual support, and to individuals who contributed to his growth and success in the civil service, while appreciating his family for their unwavering support.
The Thanksgiving service was marked by uplifting hymns, prayers of thanksgiving, and words of encouragement from the pulpit. The atmosphere brimmed with joy as the congregation celebrated with the Adeyemo family
Delivering the exhortation, Leader of the Church, Deacon Kehinde Abilawon, charged the celebrant to dedicate the rest of his life more deeply to God. He emphasized that true retirement is not an end but a call to a higher level of service in humility, purity, and commitment to divine purpose.
Deacon Abilawon further reminded the congregation that life’s ultimate goal is to serve God faithfully and urged Prince Adeyemo to see his retirement as an opportunity to become more active in kingdom work and community service
