Ayo Ogunsan at 48: An Apostle in Public Governance and Nation Building
To have a full glimpse of Dr Ayodele Ogunsan’s impact is to appreciate the convergence of skills and values he has brought into public governance and his deep involvement in shaping security initiatives, fostering business innovation, and advancing education in Nigeria. His legacy, as he approaches his 50s, speaks volumes of a man whose values are embedded in service to others, especially in the quest for a better Nigeria.
As the enigmatic personality marks his 48th birthday, it is both timely and important to reflect on the remarkable contributions of this enigmatic leader, public servant, entrepreneur, philanthropist, educationist, and security expert. In a society constantly in search of visionary leadership and solutions to pressing challenges, Ogunsan has consistently exemplified the traits of dedication, innovation, and passion for public good. His multi-faceted roles across various sectors, public governance, education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy—reflect the calibre of a quintessential Nigerian figure committed to nation-building.
Dr. Ogunsan is best known for his expertise in security and governance, notably through his role as a board member of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF). The LSSTF was established to provide support to security agencies in Lagos State, ensuring adequate funding and resources to maintain public safety. As one of the trusted hands on the board, Ogunsan has played a pivotal role in helping shape security strategies for Nigeria’s most populous and economically significant state.
In a country grappling with multifaceted security challenges ranging from terrorism to banditry, kidnapping, and urban crime, the importance of such a role cannot be overstated. Ogunsan’s work with the LSSTF has had direct implications for the welfare of Lagosians, as improved security directly impacts the ease of doing business, tourism, and the overall quality of life. His understanding of security from both a theoretical and practical standpoint—bolstered by his academic background and extensive experience—allows him to navigate the intricacies of public safety with a unique clarity.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to peace and community development, a renowned security expert, educationist and serial entrepreneur, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan was recently appointed as an International Peace Advocate by the Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC).
Suffice to say that what distinguishes Ogunsan in this realm is his ability to synthesize global best practices in security management and apply them locally. He appreciates the need for robust collaboration between the government, private sector, and international partners in tackling security challenges. Through his efforts in ensuring that Lagos State security operatives are well-equipped, trained, and funded, Ogunsan has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to governance that prioritises proactive solutions over reactive measures.
Such insights and his hands-on approach to governance reflect a depth of experience and a practical knowledge base that would be invaluable at a higher level of public administration. It is not difficult to imagine Ogunsan applying these leadership qualities and his security expertise to the governance of a state—perhaps even in a future gubernatorial role.
Ogunsan’s contributions are not confined to the security sector. As an entrepreneur, his ventures have spanned across various industries, including education, real estate, and business consultancy. His foray into entrepreneurship reflects a broader understanding of the Nigerian economy and the ways in which private-sector solutions can complement public-sector efforts.
In Nigeria, where unemployment remains a pressing issue, entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in providing jobs and fostering innovation. Ogunsan’s businesses are not only profit-driven but also aimed at addressing societal needs. His ventures reflect a desire to create value that transcends immediate financial returns, focusing instead on sustainable development and long-term societal impact.
His entrepreneurial success also provides a blueprint for other Nigerian business leaders on how to balance profit-making with societal contribution. At a time when Nigeria’s economic growth is stifled by infrastructure challenges and policy inconsistencies, Ogunsan’s entrepreneurial ventures have thrived, in part, due to his ability to navigate these challenges through innovative thinking and a deep understanding of market dynamics.
Moreover, his status as a board member in several organisations showcases his leadership prowess in diverse sectors. He is a man of integrity, consistently lending his expertise to causes that align with his vision of an economically prosperous and socially secure Nigeria. His business acumen, therefore, is not limited to building profitable enterprises but extends to shaping policies and strategies that can have a transformative effect on the broader economy.
As Nigeria continues to seek visionary leaders who can blend governance with practical experience in business, Ogunsan’s understanding of both sectors positions him as someone capable of driving reforms that boost economic growth, whether in his current capacity or in a higher political office. His governance ethos, which blends private-sector efficiency with public-sector responsibility, speaks to the calibre of leadership required at the state level.
One of the less-discussed, yet equally significant facets of Dr. Ogunsan’s career is his commitment to education. As an educationist, Ogunsan understands the foundational role that education plays in nation-building. Nigeria, with its teeming youth population, requires not only access to education but also improvements in the quality of education being offered. Ogunsan has been a vocal advocate for reforms in the educational sector, pushing for policies that promote innovation, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship among students.
Through his engagement with educational initiatives and institutions, Ogunsan has championed causes that foster the intellectual growth of Nigeria’s young minds. He believes strongly in the power of education to unlock human potential, and his philanthropy reflects this belief. By supporting educational programs, providing scholarships, and ensuring that students have access to resources that can help them succeed, he has cemented his legacy as a true educationist who sees the development of Nigeria’s youth as essential to the country’s future.
In addition to formal education, Ogunsan has emphasised the importance of vocational training and skill acquisition. In a country where traditional academic pathways may not suit the talents and aspirations of every individual, vocational education provides an alternative that empowers youths to become self-sufficient and enterprising. His advocacy for vocational training further underscores his holistic approach to education, one that goes beyond the classroom and focuses on real-world applications of knowledge.
Ogunsan’s education-driven philosophy is closely aligned with what the country’s political class needs: a commitment to human capital development, a recognition of the power of education to transform societies, and the provision of opportunities for young people to thrive. As he continues to make strides in this sector, it is worth considering how a leader with such foresight might translate these ideas into state policies that benefit the larger population if given the chance to govern at a higher political level.
Dr. Ogunsan’s life is marked not just by his professional achievements, but also by his deep commitment to philanthropy. His giving is not merely a matter of charity; it is an extension of his broader vision for societal development. In his view, true leadership is not about occupying positions of power, but about using those positions to effect positive change in the lives of others.
His philanthropic initiatives span across various sectors, including health, education, and poverty alleviation. He has funded scholarships for underprivileged students, provided financial aid to struggling families, and supported healthcare initiatives in underserved communities. His approach to philanthropy is strategic and purpose-driven, aiming to address the root causes of societal issues rather than just providing temporary relief.
What sets Ogunsan apart in his philanthropic endeavours is his belief in partnerships. He understands that sustainable social impact requires collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as civil society. By working closely with government agencies, NGOs, and other philanthropic organisations, Ogunsan ensures that his contributions are part of a broader, more comprehensive approach to solving societal challenges.
His philanthropy is also closely tied to his passion for security and education. Recognising that poverty, lack of education, and insecurity are interlinked, Ogunsan’s initiatives often address these issues in tandem. For instance, by funding educational programs in high-risk areas, he helps reduce the factors that contribute to crime and insecurity. This multi-dimensional approach to philanthropy reflects his deep understanding of the complexities of nation-building.
As Dr. Ayo Ogunsan turns 48 in a jiffy, his journey is far from over. If anything, his contributions over the past decades serve as a foundation for even greater achievements in the future. With his extensive experience in governance, security, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, Ogunsan is well-positioned to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
In a time when the country faces numerous challenges—from security threats to economic instability—leaders like Ogunsan provide a beacon of hope. His ability to navigate these challenges with grace, intelligence, and a deep commitment to public service makes him a model of the kind of leadership that Nigeria so desperately needs.
Given his diverse and well-rounded background, it is not far-fetched to consider Ogunsan as a prime candidate for more prominent political roles. His hands-on experience in governance, coupled with his strong ethical foundations, could serve any state well in a gubernatorial capacity. A state would certainly benefit from his pragmatic leadership, visionary mindset, and the vast network of partnerships he has cultivated.
As he enters this new chapter of his life, the nation watches with anticipation for the next phase of his contributions to public governance and societal development. A man of many talents, Ogunsan’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians who, like him, are dedicated to building a better, more secure, and prosperous nation.
Dr. Ayo Ogunsan at 48 is more than just a milestone, it is a reminder of the power of service, leadership, and dedication to the common good. His work in public governance, security, education, and entrepreneurship stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the progress of Nigeria. In an era where the country’s future often seems uncertain, leaders like Ogunsan offer not only solutions but hope for a brighter tomorrow. Through his ongoing contributions, he exemplifies the qualities of a quintessential figure in public governance, one whose influence will be felt for years to come.
Dapo Babalola, banker and public analyst, writes from London, United Kingdom.
