Adeleke Celebrates SWDC CEO Charles Akinola at 70, Commends Contributions to Governance
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has congratulated the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South West Development Commission (SWDC), Dr. Charles Akindiji Akinola, on his 70th birthday, describing him as one of the state’s finest technocrats and a distinguished development strategist.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the governor praised Akinola for his decades of service in public administration, policy development and institutional reforms, noting that his expertise has positively impacted governance at the state, regional, national and international levels over the past 35 years.
Adeleke recalled Akinola’s service as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State between 2018 and 2022, saying he played a key role in policy coordination, governance reforms and executive decision-making that advanced the state’s development agenda.
The governor also highlighted Akinola’s simultaneous roles as Director-General of the Office of Economic Development and Partnerships and Chairman of the State Planning Commission, crediting him with laying the foundation for inclusive economic growth and attracting strategic investments to Osun State.
Adeleke further commended the celebrant for his role in the establishment of the South West Development Commission, noting that it was a source of pride that an Osun indigene now heads the regional commission.
According to him, Akinola is leading the commission’s “One Bloc Agenda,” which is aimed at promoting integrated infrastructure, industrialisation and human capital development across the South-West.
“Dr. Akinola remains a shining example of what our state can produce when talent meets opportunity. We are immensely proud of him, and we celebrate this milestone with his family, friends and colleagues across the nation. His service has brought immense honour to Osun, his home state, and the entire South-West region,” the governor said.
Adeleke also prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength and good health for the SWDC chief as he continues to lead efforts toward the development of the South-West.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Osun State, I extend heartfelt birthday wishes to Dr. Akinola, praying for continued strength and good health to excel again in the onerous assignment of driving South-West development,” he added.