By Olalekan Badmus (Phoenix)
Public relations and information management is perhaps the trickiest part of public service, especially in this age of digital technology and a generation that is versed in the application of modern innovations. It is a thankless role, only remembered in times of crisis and often overlooked in period of calm.
At the heart of Governor Adeleke’s Information Management System is a centrifugal force, the commanding general, and the energetic leadership of Mallam Olawale Rasheed (MOR). A trained journalist, policy expert and excellent administrator, MOR has not only brought his expertise and experience to bear in the current administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke but has established himself as a cardinal member of the current Executive Council.
Mallam Olawale’s decades of practice as a seasoned journalist and media practitioner has helped propel Governor Adeleke into arguably the most popular Governor in Nigeria; his experience as an administrator and policy analyst has been invaluable in breaking down numerous policies and programmes of Governor Adeleke’s led government to the general public.
Despite his blistering professional career, Mallam Olawale’s passion for service has been evident throughout his life. Born into a political family, he began active politics in his teenage years and has contributed in various capacities up until his current stint as the Spokesperson to Governor Adeleke.
His passion for excellence and mentoring younger people has distinguished him from his peers. Mallam Olawale has elevated young people more than ever imagined. Nicknamed King of Boys, he is always lively and active in the midst of young people. This, perhaps is his greatest strength, as he lead a team of vibrant, erudite and intelligent youths in the media team of the current administration, he continue to show purposeful leadership with strong adherence to excellence.
One admirable quality of Mallam Olawale is his contentment to being in the shadow. As the PR backbone of Governor Adeleke, he is happy to relinquish the ovation stage for his principal, he is never a man to take credits. Oftentimes, he always say “our job is to promote our principal and not ourselves”, this has stuck with me from day 1.
Another outstanding quality of Mallam Olawale is his unique understanding of every sector, as often said of journalists, Mallam Olawale always knows something about everything. This has been useful in navigating the governance terrain and ensuring timely delivery and communication of Governor Adeleke’s vision in every sector of the state to the people of Osun and beyond.
Like clockwork, Mallam Olawale has mastered the art of perfection in his job, a very serious minded and tactical leader, accommodating and inspiring, he has no doubt established himself as one of the key elements of the present administration and as he clocks 60 years of age today, he must be filled with a huge sense of fulfillment, for a career and life fully and completely dedicated to service!
I use this opportunity to join friends, family, political associates and well wishers to wish a boss, a leader and torchbearer, a happy and prosperous 60th birthday celebration. I pray Almighty Allah continue to bless, strengthen and elevate you as you do more in the service of humanity.
Many happy returns boss!!!
