In a significant move to bolster administrative efficiency and ensure the seamless execution of government initiatives, Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced a series of key Ogun State permanent secretary appointments. These strategic selections are designed to inject fresh leadership and expertise into various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the state, underscoring the administration’s commitment to robust governance and public service delivery. The appointments reflect a meticulous process aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities that drive policy implementation for the benefit of all citizens.
What is a Permanent Secretary? A Permanent Secretary is the administrative head of a government ministry or department, responsible for its day-to-day operations and the implementation of government policies. They provide continuity and professional expertise, advising political office holders and overseeing the civil service staff within their domain.
Governor Abiodun’s decision to appoint nine new permanent secretaries, along with additional education sector leaders, highlights a proactive approach to strengthening the state’s public service. The announcement, conveyed through a statement by the State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, detailed that these selections adhered strictly to the provisions of Section 208 (c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended. This legal framework ensures that appointments are based on merit, professional competence, inclusiveness, and extensive cognate experience within the civil and public service of Ogun State.
The process for these Ogun State government appointments was rigorous, with candidates carefully chosen from a pool of directors who successfully completed the state’s executive leadership development pipeline programme. This structured approach ensures that only the most qualified and experienced individuals ascend to these crucial roles, capable of navigating the complexities of public administration and contributing effectively to the state’s development agenda. This focus on structured development is a critical step in building a resilient and responsive bureaucracy.
The newly appointed permanent secretaries bring diverse expertise to their new portfolios. They include Mr. Abdul-Azeez Ajidele from the Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Soyoye-Baker overseeing agriculture and cash transfer initiatives, and Mrs. Adebimpe Obienu, the Director of Public Prosecution. Other notable appointees are Kafayat Lawal from the Alternate Medicine Board, Mr. Ahmed Adetona from the Office of the Auditor-General, and Mr. Idowu Onasanya from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. These individuals represent a broad spectrum of public service dedication.
Further strengthening the government’s financial and industrial sectors are Mr. Olalekan Taiwo, Director of Payment at the State Treasury Office, Mr. Akintomiwa Osibodu from the Teaching Service Commission, and Kehinde Akintomide, Director of Industrial Promotion. These strategic placements are intended to optimize departmental functions and foster innovation across key economic and social sectors. The selection of these experienced professionals is expected to yield significant improvements in service delivery.
Beyond the permanent secretaries, Governor Abiodun also approved the appointment of two principals-general and four headteachers-general. This move is specifically aimed at addressing vacant leadership positions within the Teaching Service Commission and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). These appointments are critical for enhancing administrative processes and improving the overall quality of education across Ogun State, demonstrating a holistic approach to public sector leadership.
Why are permanent secretaries appointed? Permanent secretaries are appointed to provide stability, expertise, and continuity in government administration, ensuring that policies are implemented effectively regardless of political changes. They serve as non-partisan advisors to ministers and commissioners, managing the day-to-day operations of government ministries and departments.
The Head of Service reiterated that all education sector appointees, including Mr. Matthew Adeyinka OSILESI and Mr. Yakubu Olorunyomi LAMIDI as Principals-General, and Headteachers-General like Mr. Benjamin Alonge and Mrs. Aminat Busari, were selected through a similarly stringent process. They were drawn from shortlisted candidates who underwent a rigorous selection, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to competence at all levels. This meticulous process ensures that capable leaders are at the helm of educational institutions.
These Dapo Abiodun appointments explained reflect a clear strategy to invigorate the state’s public and civil service. The governor’s mandate for these new leaders is clear: to demonstrate unwavering dedication, absolute devotion, and selflessness in their critical new roles. This emphasis on commitment is vital for driving the state’s development agenda and ensuring that public services are delivered efficiently and transparently to all residents of Ogun State. The ongoing focus on strengthening the public sector is a cornerstone of his administration’s vision for progress.
The comprehensive approach to these Ogun State permanent secretary appointments signifies a robust effort to build a more effective and responsive government. By prioritizing merit and experience, the administration aims to create a public service machinery that is well-equipped to tackle current challenges and drive future growth, ensuring that the state remains on a path of sustainable development and improved welfare for its citizens.
