By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Chairman of Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Ojo chapter, Comrade Tajudeen Olatubosun Oladipupo teaching career came to an end on Saturday, April 12, 2025, which spanned three decades.
He was profusely grateful to God, and was full of thanks to the Lagos State Government for the opportunity to serve.
At the event to mark his meritorious 30 years statutory retirement and 60th birthday celebration as the Vice Principal (Administration), Lagos State Government Senior Secondary School, Ijanikin, Oladipupo, said: “I really enjoyed my profession. I am satisfied that I contributed to the development of many students that passed through me by imparting in them knowledge. I had a fulfilled career. I thank God so his blessing and my children are doing well also.”
Oladipupo paid tribute to his students and staff of Lagos State Government Senior Secondary School. As a mark of honour, the students and co-workers lined up in the hallway and applauded him as he walked out of the school for the last time.
On whether he had any regret during his career, Oladipupo, whose area was English Education, said: “there was no point in the years that I regretted what I was doing or my calling.”
Appreciating the Lagos State Government for the opportunity to live out his dream, the Ogbomoso-born educator, added: “I really appreciate Lagos State for the opportunity given me to reach director level. It is indeed a privilege; I thank them so much.”
Oladipupo, who traversed different schools in Lagos in the course of his service, retired as a full-fledged director at level 17.
The Treasurer and Permanent Secretary of Education District V, Mr. Hassan Dauda Abiodun, said the occasion was not just a celebration but a tribute to a man whose impact on countless lives reverberated beyond the confines of the classroom.
Abiodun continued: “In a world often marked by the rush for material gains, Comrade Oladipupo stands out as a beacon of commitment to education. He is not just a teacher; he is a super teacher, a title he has rightfully earned with his passion, intelligence, and extraordinary dedication to his students.”
“His impact extends far beyond the walls of this school. Students, who once struggled with English, now articulate their thoughts and dreams with fluency and confidence, thanks to the unparalleled guidance of Oladipupo. Those who once felt unseen now stand tall, emboldened by the knowledge he has imparted.
“Oladipupo has sacrificed countless hours, often working late into the night, to ensure that each student finds their voice and learns to express it.”
Principal of the school, Mr. Oniyide Bamidele, commended the sacrifice the retired teacher made, especially the extra effort to ensure students get extra time as he engaged them in early morning lecture.
Bamidele eulogied Oladipupo for his contribution to the development of his students, adding, “you can see the crowd; it shows the kind of person he is, a super teacher, highly intelligent, passionate and smart teacher.”
Some of his old students acknowledged his contribution to the teaching profession and the development of education in the country.
A representative of the 1998 sets at Army Cantonment Boys Schools said: “We all had that one favourite teacher in school, who believed in us and encouraged us to follow our dreams. No matter how old you get, you still remember that teacher and cherish the memories of studying in school.
He was called “King” of the boys due to his approach and interaction with boys and acknowledged that the advice he gave them yielded results.