Abiodun Inaugurates Commissioners, Advisers Charges on Hard Work

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday, inaugurated the State Executive Council with the swearing-in of 20 commissioners and 24 Special Advisers.

The inaugurated Executive Council, comprises some that have served the Abiodun’s administration during his first term while others were newly appointed for the second term.

The event, which took place at Obas Complex, Oke Mosan, was attended by serving and former political leaders in various capacities in the state, elected political office holders, permanent secretaries, facilities and associates of the Commissioners and Special Advisers.

Addressing the gathering, Abiodun who said that the immediate past Executive Council, had placed the state at a level that excellence and good governance cannot be compromised.

The governor said, “I have no doubt in my mind that you have been chosen by God as  worthy collaborators in this journey of our second term in the office; so, you must see your appointment as a clarion call to continue rendering selfless service, and to continually displaying high level of cohesiveness and indivisibility with the new team and be dedicated.

“You must be conscious of the fact that our people expect so much from us and we cannot afford to disappoint them in any way, as we must always have it at the back of your mind that your appointments are opportunities to prove your mettle as we jointly forge ahead in this new journey of hope.

“You must be ready to work harder than before in order to collectively bring accelerated development to our great state.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, as you take up this mantle of leadership, you must be reminded that your duties must be carried out in consonance with the best practices.

“You must be professional in your dealings, most especially in the area of proper administration and financial prudence. You must be conscious and meticulous in your dealings and avoid any shady activities  that will bring reproach to your  name and that of the administration.

“In addition to that, you must not see your elevation as a weapon to be used against rivals, either perceived or real. The leadership status that your new position confers upon you makes it imperative that you must rise above pettiness and become unifying agents in your respective constituencies.

“Therefore, you must always strive to relate with your colleagues and subordinates alike with consideration and decorum. The expectation of our people is to have increased returns on the valiant sacrifices they made in the course of giving me their mandate.

“Let me also state that as you resume duties in your different MDAs, you have to ensure a symbiotic relationship with the civil servants who are career officers. In fact, I refer to them as our landlords, you must be able to work together in harmony and for the betterment of our State and the general good of the people.”

Abiodun restated the readiness of his administration to the development of the state’s economy and improving the lives of the people of the state, saying, “We will continue to provide the necessary conducive atmosphere for the success of our workforce.”

While stating that the appointees were men and women of enviable pedigree and sound minds, Abiodun said the state is very lucky to have had men and women with requisite intellectual capacity, creativity and acumen as architects of governmental policies and compass of policy direction.

He therefore noted that the inauguration of the Executive Council, “signified the beginning of a new chapter in our administration and a new dawn to say the least.”

Stating that the state has become envy of other states, Abiodun charged that they must together, protect this privilege jealously by hitting the ground running as a formidable team.

Speaking on behalf of the appointees, a commissioner, Chief Dapo Okubadejo and Babatunde  Adesina, appreciated the governor for the opportunities given them to serve the state, promising that they would not disappoint the governor and the people of the state.