The surprise birthday party held in honour of Mrs. Morayo Matilda Bayo Philips, the Administrative Secretary of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), was nothing short of extraordinary. It truly embodied the biblical principle that an elder who has laboured well in word and doctrine should be counted worthy of double honour.
Mrs. Bayo Philips, wife of the Ondo State Head of Service, was completely surprised upon arriving at her office on Friday, March 7th, 2025. The office was beautifully decorated, and she was greeted with a warm welcome, accompanied by the sounds of drums and trumpets. This grand celebration was a tribute to her numerous virtues and the tremendous impact she has made.
Her husband, Mr. Bayo Philips, the Ondo State Head of Service, shared touching words about his wife. "I wish my dear wife many more fruitful years, not only within our family but also within the state and beyond.
"She is a wonderful woman, an exemplary figure, a mother, and a confidante. My prayer is that she will be with us for many more years of good health and happiness. To the workers of Ondo State, let us always remember the importance of service. My wife had no idea about this celebration, but this event is a testament to the fact that good deeds are always rewarded."
Ambassador Dr. Temitope Ojoge, Principal of Fiwasaye Girls' Grammar School, Akure praised Mrs. Bayo Philips as a woman with a listening ear and remarkable capacity, whose leadership has resulted in unprecedented growth within TESCOM. She offered prayers for Mrs. Bayo Philips, asking that God continue to bestow wisdom upon her as she advances the teaching profession.
Dr. Adebayo Famakinwa, Principal of Ondo Boys' High School, Ondo, spoke fondly of Mrs. Bayo Philips, noting how her leadership had transformed TESCOM since her appointment as Administrative Secretary. "When she first joined, we were skeptical," Dr. Famakinwa admitted, "but we have witnessed her positive changes and the recognition she has brought to principals in Ondo State. She never places juniors above seniors for any reason." He highlighted how TESCOM principals now receive recognition and opportunities to participate in state events, something that had not been the case before.
Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, Principal of Ijapo High School, Akure, also shared her admiration for Mrs. Bayo Philips' leadership. "Under her leadership, we have enjoyed numerous privileges, including participation in Civil Service Week and a closer relationship with the Governor. She is a mother both at home and in the workplace, and there is always something valuable to learn from her," she said, offering prayers for Mrs. Bayo Philips and her family.
Chief (Mrs.) Akinseloyin Adeola Ane, Principal of St. Monica Girls' Grammar School, Ondo, shared that the Like Minds Principals under the ANCOPSS organized the surprise birthday party to honour a woman she described as a true leader with a difference.
Pastor Adekunle Adeyinka Frank, Principal of St. Joseph Ondo City, Ondo State, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how Mrs. Bayo Philips' exceptional leadership had earned recognition for Ondo principals. He noted that such acknowledgment had been rare before her tenure, and it was the reason for the surprise event organized by the Like Minds Principals.
Mrs. Mercy Oluwapelumi Adetimehin, Principal of CAC Grammar School Akure, also voiced her admiration, praying that Mrs. Bayo Philips would continue to be blessed with all good things in life.
In her heartfelt response, Mrs. Morayo Bayo Philips expressed immense joy at the monumental celebration held in her honour. She thanked everyone involved in organizing the surprise event and prayed that God would grant them their own pleasant surprises. She also took the opportunity to encourage teachers to view their profession as a divine calling to shape lives and destinies.
Following the cake-cutting ceremony, awards were presented by St. Monica Girls' Grammar School and Ondo Boys' High School, Ondo. The celebration was further enhanced by cultural performances, including Ilaje and Ondo dances, which added to the event's glamour.
Mrs. Temitope Ojoge, in her vote of thanks, expressed deep appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. She concluded by praying for many more glorious years for the celebrant.
As part of the celebration, gifts were presented to Mrs. Bayo Philips, led by Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo. All participants were treated to an array of delicious food and drinks, and the dance floor was filled with joyful celebrations as they rejoiced with the celebrant.
