A significant chapter in the journey of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) comes to a heartfelt close as Mrs. Tiling Marling Yelyel, the immediate-past Ag. Director of the Yola Study Centre, bids adieu upon reaching the milestone age of 65. Her retirement, marked by a grand Send-off/Retirement Thanksgiving Service on August 5, 2023, is a poignant celebration of her unwavering dedication and remarkable contribution to NOUN and the nation as a whole.

The vibrant festivities unfolded within the Multi-purpose Hall of the Yola Study Centre, where a diverse gathering including CAN representatives, students, alumni association members, staff, friends, and well-wishers assembled to pay homage to the “workaholic” leader who has concluded her tenure after years of meritorious service.

In his warm welcome, Mr. Olumide Aladuge, the acting director of the centre, extended gratitude on behalf of the attendees, expressing deep appreciation for Mrs. Yelyel's exceptional hard work throughout her tenure with NOUN. Aladuge specifically acknowledged her invaluable cooperation, support, and guidance that illuminated his path prior to his appointment as acting director, serving as a guiding light for his managerial journey.

Aladuge painted a vivid portrait of Yelyel as a diligent, forthright, and compassionate individual, whose character resonated profoundly and served as an inspiring example for all. He stated, “Mrs. Yelyel is one of the few individuals who embody qualities that speak volumes about her; her diligence, forthrightness, and hard work are well-known."

The occasion also witnessed a touching address from Mr. Milgawa Umar, the Alumni President of the Yola Study Centre. Umar extended hearty congratulations to Mrs. Yelyel for her well-earned retirement, recognizing her indelible mark on the centre. Umar's heartfelt prayers and good wishes echoed throughout the hall, underscoring the association's deep respect and admiration for the retiree.

Amidst the gathering, the voices of students and other attendees resonated with praise, painting Yelyel as a paragon of integrity, a wise adviser, a dedicated worker, a model of humility, and a beacon of industriousness.

In her response, the celebrated retiree conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to the NOUN management, staff, students, family members, well-wishers, and all those who played a role in her journey. Filled with gratitude, she testified to God's grace, goodness, protection, and provision that guided her throughout her 65 years. She emphasized her reliance on divine support, sharing her victory over challenges with immense joy.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Yelyel offered her fellow colleagues parting words of wisdom, urging them to set boundaries and be vigilant against the temptations that may arise. She highlighted the importance of prayer, self-control, and safeguarding one's integrity.

The culmination of the event featured special prayers and accolades showered upon Mrs. Yelyel by her colleagues, students, and friends. A symbol of gratitude and respect, a Hisense TV 43 inch was presented to her, followed by a heartwarming group photograph session that captured the essence of her exemplary leadership.

With the Yola Study Centre bidding adieu to a remarkable chapter, Mrs. Yelyel's legacy remains etched in the annals of NOUN. Her journey stands as a testament to dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of education. As she embarks on the next phase of life's journey, Mrs. Yelyel's influence and impact will continue to resonate, inspiring generations to come.