Thomas Adelani Akanji Olabiyi (affectionately known as Chief) was born on February 27th to the late Jacob Olabiyi of Opokolegbo Compound, Ayetoro-Oke, and Deborah Okeseye Olabiyi of Ile Afija, Ilaji-Oke, Kajola Local Government Area, Oyo State.
His educational journey began at Baptist Primary School, Ayetoro-Oke (1966-1968), followed by Roman Catholic Mission School, Ijio (1969), and 2nd Baptist Primary School, Ogan, Okeho (1970-1971). He then attended Baptist Modern School, Okeho (1972-1974), earning his Modern 3 Secondary School Leaving Certificate, and later Baptist High School, Ilero (1976-1981).
In 1983, Mr. Olabiyi enrolled in the Divisional Teachers Training College, Ejigbo, Osun State, graduating in 1985. He continued his education at St. Andrew’s College of Education, Oyo (1987-1990) and ultimately earned a degree from the University of Ado-Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti (1999-2002).
Mr. Olabiyi dedicated his life to education, beginning his teaching career while still in training. He served in several schools throughout his career: L.A. Primary School (Special), Olele Okeho (1991-1997); Roman Catholic Mission, Iwere Oke (January-June 1998); L.A. School, Alaapa, Okeho (June 1998-June 2000); Baptist Primary School, Joloko Okeho (June 2000-2005); Baptist Basic School, Ilua (2005-2012); Community Basic School 2, Bode Okeho (2012-2016); ADS Basic School 2, Eeyele Okeho (2016-2018); and finally, Baptist Basic School 2, Ayetoro Okeho (2018-2020), where he retired as Head Teacher.
He also shared his expertise as a part-time lecturer at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Sandwich Study Centre, Okeho, and the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education Sandwich Program, Okeho Study Centre.
Mr. Olabiyi retired from the Oyo State teaching service on February 27, 2020. Prior to his retirement, he had ventured into the farm herbicide business, which he later discontinued due to health concerns.
He was a devoted family man, blessed with wonderful children.
WasPositions of Responsibility:
~ Time Keeper Prefect, D.T.C. Ejigbo (1984-1985)
~ Member, Ayetoro-Oke Caretaker Committee (1990-1991)
~ Supervisor, National Population Commission (NPC), Katsina State (1991)
~ Financial Secretary, First Baptist Church, Ayetoro-Oke (1991-1997)
~ Financial Secretary, Egbe Omo Ogun Kristi, First Baptist Church, Ayetoro-Oke
~ Sunday School Superintendent, First Baptist Church, Ayetoro-Oke
~ President, Okeho Baptist Youth Association (1999-2004)
~ Chairman, Ward 04 Caretaker Committee, Kajola Local Government (S.D.P.) (1992-1993)
~ Secretary, Ifesowapo 2 Cooperative Society, Ayetoro-Oke (1994-1996)
~ Secretary, Ayetoro Oke Iwa Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative Union Limited (1997-2000)
~ President, Ifesowapo 2 Cooperative Society, Ayetoro-Oke
~ Vice President, Students Councilors Association of Nigeria (SACOED) Branch (1988-1989)
~ Agricultural Officer, L.A. School, Alaapa Okeho (1998-2000)
~ Teachers Supervisor, Kajola Local Government (2008)
~ Representative, EKO DOTUNBI Program on BCOS Radio (June 1997)
Mr. Olabiyi held numerous other positions and served in various capacities throughout his life, demonstrating his commitment to community and service. A more comprehensive list of these contributions is unfortunately unavailable.
Compiled by Boluwatife Olabiyi
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