The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has bade farewell to one of its directors, Mrs. Omorogieva E. Ileka, who climaxed her public service career with a series of events.
The celebrations of her exit were held on January 27, 2025 at the university headquarters in Abuja.
They marked the conclusion of her distinguished career in public service at the age of 65, while celebrating her significant contributions to the university.
Speaking at a send-off/valedictory ceremony, organised by the university registry to honor the retiring director, NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, commended Ileka her invaluable contributions to the university’s growth and success.
He described Ileka, who until her retirement was the Director, Advancement and Linkages, as a seasoned administrator whose shoes would be difficult to fill.
“She is a dignified individual who brought both diligence and empathy to the Office of Advancement and Linkages.
"She has built strong relationships with the staff in the directorate. I thank her for her support and counsel to the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and to the entire university community. Thank you for the impact you have made at NOUN. Congratulations,” he said.
Similarly, NOUN Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, hailed Ileka as an extraordinary individual who has left an indelible mark on the university, particularly within the registry department.
“It is with profound gratitude and admiration that we honour the retirement of Mrs. Ileka, a seasoned administrator and a model of integrity and industriousness.
"Her career trajectory is a testament to excellence, dedication, and passion for public service.
"Over the course of 27 remarkable years, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the values of diligence, professionalism, and ethical leadership,” he said.
On his part, former NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Emeritus Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede, paid tribute to the honouree’s dedication and exceptional qualities, describing her as committed, humble, and an astute administrator who consistently excelled in her role.
“She excelled in the first directorate she headed when she began her duties at NOUN. The inner strength she has displayed is God-given. Thank you for representing us so well,” Jegede said.
The retiring director delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled "Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges in the Workplace: What Has Empathy Got to Do with It?"
She began by sharing her remarkable journey in public service, which began at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in 1983.
Ileka rose from the position of Administrative Officer to Deputy Director by July 1996. In September 2010, she transferred her service to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
Ileka explained that the title of her lecture mirrored her career journey, which involved overcoming challenges, societal biases and prejudices, navigating obstacles, and creating meaningful connections.
During her lecture, she emphasised the significance of empathy as an essential administrative tool that unlocks valuable insights, drives innovation, and enhances workplace relationships.
“Over the years, I have come to appreciate the immense benefits of cultivating empathy as an administrator.
"I observed that teams lacking trust consistently fell behind those led by empathetic leadership. Moreover, trust thrives when people understand the rationale behind decisions,” she said.
The celebrant added that “Empathising and building bridges in the workplace are essential for creating a healthy, productive, and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
"These practices go beyond simple kindness; they are tools for fostering meaningful connections and driving organisational success.”
Reflecting on her career spanning over four decades, the honouree stated that her experience in service has shown her that while breaking barriers is important, true and lasting change comes from building bridges.
Through these connections, partnerships, and shared moments of strength, she has been able to grow in her service.
She expressed deep appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Emeritus Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede, and the entire university community for their support throughout her career.
Tributes also poured in from her family, friends, and colleagues, with various representatives of the NOUN community expressing admiration for her years of exceptional leadership, mentorship, and service.
Earlier, a thanksgiving mass organised by the Our Lady Seat of Wisdom NOUN Catholic Chaplaincy was held on the university premises.G
During the service, a tribute was jointly presented by the Chaplain, Fr. Michael Enyinwa Okoronkwo, Chairperson, Thanksgiving Organizing Committee, Mr. Matthias Agbo, and the Chairperson, NOUN Catholic Chaplaincy, Mrs. Martina Arinze-Onaga.
The tribute highlighted the director's instrumental role in establishing the church, praising her financial support and dedication despite her demanding schedule.
They emphasised her consistent availability and willingness to assist the church community whenever called upon.
“It is with profound joy that we stand before you today to express our thanks.
You are one of the foremost leaders and pioneers of NOUN Catholics. You gave us a foothold in NOUN and taught us how to navigate it without relying on a stick.
"You are a silent motivator and a true daughter of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom," the tribute said.
- Log in to post comments
- 110 views
