By: Oluwatobi Aroyehun
The Kwara State Banquet Hall in Ilorin, Kwara State capital was filled with emotions, tributes, and fond memories as family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate the life of a former Head of Service of the state Mrs Susan Modupe Oluwole (Nee Bello).
The former HOS died recently at the age of 57, barely one year after her statutory retirement from the Kwara State Civil Service.
The event, held on April 3, 2025, was a solemn yet uplifting ceremony that honored the legacy of a woman who dedicated her life to public service and the improvement of Kwara State.
Mrs. Oluwole, who served as the 20th Head of Service of Kwara State and only the second female to hold the esteemed position, led the state’s civil service from 2017 to 2024 with distinction.
The Celebration of Life service was officiated by clerics of the Diocese of Offa, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Cathedral Church of St. Mark in Offa.
They included Rev. Canon M.O.J. Jayeoba, Ven. Charles Olugbenga Alegbeleye, Ven. Dr. Emmanuel Omotayo Faremi, and The Rt. Revd. Dr. Solomon Olusola Akanbi, PhD. The choir of the cathedral delivered powerful renditions of Christian hymns, setting a reverent and reflective atmosphere.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Kayode Alabi, who represented His Excellency, Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
In his speech, the Deputy Governor recounted his personal connection with the late Mrs. Oluwole, highlighting her invaluable guidance and unwavering support during his tenure in government.
“Mrs. Oluwole was a woman of great substance and immeasurable worth. Also, she was an exemplary leader who dedicated her life to the ideals of diligence, integrity, and service to the people. In addition, impact on the civil service remains indelible, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Mrs. Opeyemi Oladipupo, a close friend of the deceased, delivered an emotional tribute, describing the deep personal loss she felt, saying: “Dupe was loving. Words fail me. I have lost a sister, a friend, and a confidant. The void she leaves behind is difficult to fill, but I trust that God, in His infinite mercy, will grant us comfort.”
The event saw the attendance by several government officials, representatives in the state agencies, and members of organizations such as the Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA).
Attendees reflected on Mrs. Oluwole’s contributions to public service and her enduring impact on those who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
Her life and service will be remembered as a beacon of dedication and excellence in Kwara State.
