It was a moment filled with gratitude, admiration, and heartfelt tributes as the Ekiti State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ESPHCDA) organized a befitting pen-down ceremony in honour of its outgoing Executive Secretary, Dr. Rasheed Adepoju.
The colourful event, which brought together key stakeholders in the health sector and beyond, marked the formal bowing out of a leader widely celebrated for his impactful service and commitment to grassroots healthcare delivery in Ekiti State.
In his welcome address, the Director of Administration and Supply,Mr Sunday Olajide warmly received distinguished guests, colleagues, and well-wishers, setting the tone for an occasion defined by appreciation and reflection.
Delivering her remarks, the Chairman of the ESPHCDA Board, Dr. (Mrs.) Funke Ogunbunmi, eulogized Dr. Adepoju for his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the agency’s mandate. She commended his numerous contributions, noting that his tenure significantly strengthened primary healthcare systems across the state. She expressed profound gratitude for his service and wished him success in his future endeavours.
Also speaking, the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr. Akintunde Ogunsakin, praised the outgoing ES for his visionary leadership, particularly highlighting his grassroots initiatives that brought healthcare services closer to the people. He described Dr. Adepoju as a mentor and a pillar whose legacy would continue to inspire the agency.
Adding her voice, the NLC Women’s Wing Chairperson, Mrs. Tayo Bade Gboyega, commended Dr. Adepoju for his inclusive leadership style and his support for workers’ welfare, emphasizing the positive impact of his administration on staff morale and productivity.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of top government officials, including the Permanent Secretaries of the Hospital Management Board (HMB) Dr Sunkanmi Alabi and the Ministry of Health, Mrs Sola Gbenga-Igotun, directors from the Agency, Medical Officers of Health (MOH)/Health Secretaries from various Local Governments in Ekiti State, Programme Officers, Departmental and Unit Heads, staff, and other esteemed guests.
In his response, Dr. Rasheed Adepoju expressed deep appreciation for what he described as a “surprise pen-down ceremony.” He extended heartfelt thanks to the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for giving him the opportunity to serve in the capacity of Executive Secretary of the agency,he also extended the appreciation to the first lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji,the Head of Service, Dr Kemi Olomojobi, Commissioner for Health Dr Filani Oyebanji as well as the Chairman of the Agency Dr. Funke Ogunbunmi for their support throughout his tenure.
He also paid a special tribute to his wife for her pivotal role in organizing the event, acknowledging her unwavering support.
Furthermore, he appreciated the management and staff of ESPHCDA and all stakeholders for their cooperation and commitment, which he said made his achievements possible.
The ceremony concluded on a note of celebration and goodwill, as colleagues and well-wishers reflected on Dr. Adepoju’s legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to improving primary healthcare delivery in Ekiti State.
His tenure, many affirmed, leaves behind a solid foundation for continued growth and excellence in the agency.
