Governor Seyi Makinde has declared his determination to remain committed to public service for as long as he lives, reaffirming his focus on governance and service delivery in Oyo State.
He made the remark on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held to mark the 60th birthday and retirement of the immediate past Head of Service, Chief (Mrs) Olubunmi Onii, at the Christ Apostolic Church Headquarters Secretariat in Basorun, Ibadan.
The service, held at the headquarters of Christ Apostolic Church in Ibadan, centred on reflections about service, with sermons drawing from biblical examples of lifelong dedication.
Makinde, referencing the message delivered by the CAC Worldwide President, Pastor Samuel Olusegun Oladele, said he was inspired to continue giving his best in service to the people.
He also used the occasion to call for prayers over the release of abducted teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, urging residents to remain hopeful and prayerful.
“The hearts of kings are in the hands of the Lord, and so are the hearts of bandits. So, let us pray that God should touch their hearts while we continue to do our best to bring back our children and their teachers. Let us continue to remember them in our prayers,” he said.
The governor praised Mrs Onii for her 34 years of public service, describing her career as dedicated and impactful. He also revealed that her appointment as Head of Service followed a careful review process, dismissing concerns about her origin as irrelevant given her long record of service to the state.
Makinde also highlighted his administration’s efforts to ensure fairness in civil service appointments across senatorial zones, stating that no region should be excluded from key leadership positions.
He further announced confidence in the newly appointed Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Adenike Fasina, describing her qualifications and professional standing as key reasons for her selection.
In her remarks, Mrs Onii expressed gratitude to the governor and his administration, describing her career in the civil service as fulfilling, despite its challenges.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the governor’s wife, Engr (Mrs) Tamunominini Makinde, the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, senior civil servants, commissioners, and other dignitaries.
