GSS Ilorin honours retired school health facility matron
The Government Secondary School (GSS) Ilorin has honoured its retired school clinic matron, Alhaja Wosilat Saliu, at a colourful ceremony held to celebrate her selfless service and over three decades of dedication to public health at different primary healthcare centres across the state.
Alhaja Wosilat, who spent more than 15 years at GSS Ilorin, was widely celebrated for her tireless devotion to the wellbeing of students.
Speaking at the event, she expressed deep gratitude and joy at the honour bestowed on her, saying “I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and joy as I receive honour a remarkable honor”.
She acknowledged the support of colleagues and loved ones throughout her career.
Reflecting on her journey, the retired matron recounted the passion that drove her service. “Over 15 years ago, I was posted to GSS Ilorin, and from that very first day, I carried out my duties with humility, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility,” she said.
She noted that her commitment often extended far beyond official hours, adding, “on weekends, during emergencies, and at any hour a student needed care, I was always available.”
Her children, in a speech delivered by Saliu Ramat, described her as a woman who treated nursing as a divine calling.
“We watched her pour her heart into this profession. She woke up early, returned home late, tended to countless students, and still found the strength to care for us with love and patience,” they said.
They added that she served as “a mother to many students; listening, treating, encouraging, and sometimes even scolding them with the softness only a caregiver can give.”
“Mom’s dedication reminds us of the true meaning of service: showing up even when it is not convenient; giving your best even when no one is watching; and leaving every place and every person better than you found them.”
For around 30 years in service, they said, she lived these principles daily, touching hundreds of lives.
“Today, we give thanks to Allah for guiding her through this journey with health and honour. We celebrate her resilience, compassion, sacrifices, and the legacy she leaves behind,” they declared.
The children encouraged her to embrace the blessings of retirement, saying, “Mom, as you retire, know that you have earned every bit of rest, peace, and joy that comes next. Your story inspires us, and your example will continue to guide us.”
The speech ended with a deep expression of pride and prayers for her future. “On behalf of all your children, we say: Alhamdulillahi Rabbil ‘Alamin. May Allah bless this new chapter with happiness, fulfilment, and long-lasting good health.*
Friends and colleagues who attended the event described Alhaja Salihu as a woman of exceptional empathy, discipline, and integrity. Many noted that her presence at the school went beyond medical duties, as she often provided mentorship to students and counsel to staff. Her tenure, they said, would be remembered for her motherly disposition and unwavering professionalism.
The event featured presentations of gifts, expressions of goodwill, and a display of affection that underscored the depth of her influence. Attendees said the celebration was not just to mark her retirement but to honour a legacy built on compassion, service, and steadfast commitment to humanity.
Among those present were notable dignitaries including a former Chief Press Secretary, Moshood Adebimpe; the Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor, Ibrahim Abdullateef; Special Assistant on Students Affairs to the Governor, Hon. Salami Wasiu Onidugbe; and Chairman of the Kwara Online Media Practitioners, Salihu Shola Taofeek, among several others. Their attendance, observers noted, was a testament to the profound respect Alhaja Salihu commands both within and outside the school community.
