Tears, tributes and thanksgiving marked the retirement of Mr. Akinfolarin Jubril from the state civil service on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Family, friends and colleagues staged a surprise send-forth ceremony in his honour at the FFA Events Center, in the state capital.
The intimate but colorful gathering was graced by prominent personalities including Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration, Hon. Wale Akinlosotu; former Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi, and his wife, Chief Mrs. Kumuyi, and members of the Circle of Friends Club.
Others who graced the occasion were staff of the Ondo State Development and Property Corporation; Local Government staff; OSPHCDA staff; clerics such as Pastor Kayode Falade, Pastor Paul Oluwaleye, Pastor (Mrs) Israel Olukolade, and Mrs. Omotayo Peters; as well as Prince Oluseye Olujimi and several other dignitaries.
The celebrant, overwhelmed by emotions, burst into tears on discovering the surprise.
It took the combined efforts of his wife, Mrs Jubril, children and close friends to pacify him before he could sit to enjoy the tributes that followed.
In his tribute, Otunba Femi Babatunde, who spoke first, described the celebrant as a true friend and brother. “We married almost at the same time, lived in the same neighborhood and shared life’s struggles together. Jubril is like a drum – what you see depends on the side facing you. He is a man of many parts, but above all, a good man who has given his best in service. I pray he enjoys sound health and a long life to reap the fruits of his labour,” he said.
Others who spoke from his Officeextolled Jubril’s loyalty and uprightness: “When Mr. Jubril believes in you, he gives 100% loyalty. He is frank, sincere and family-oriented. He stood by me in times of struggle, and I thank God for his life. Heaven will celebrate you,” One of them noted.
Also speaking, Ondo Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philips, praised the celebrant’s integrity and urged younger officers to emulate him. “You always stood for the truth. This retirement is a new season to enjoy your grandchildren, eat well, exercise more, and serve as a community elder statesman,” he remarked.
Jubril’s children also moved the audience with heartfelt testimonies.
One of his daughters, Jubril Olayele recalled how strangers often recounted stories of her father’s generosity.
She narrated how he once assisted an accident victim in the rain until the man was safe. “Daddy has never said no to his children.
Similarly, Oluwafemi Mosunmola said “He sacrifices his last dime for our education, he doesn’t joke with us, and he loves us deeply. Thank you for being a great father and role model,” she said tearfully.
From the church community, one of the mothers described Jubril as a man with a passion for God. “During Bible study, he often asks questions that make everyone rethink.
“He is not perfect, but he has a heart for God’s work. He gives generously, not just to his family but also to the church,” she added.
The evening ended in songs of praise, prayers, and a lively atmosphere of love, gratitude and admiration for a man many described as “frank, loyal, family-oriented and God-fearing.”
