The Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in establishing the South West Development Commission (SWDC) and appointing what he described as “people of impeccable character” to lead the commission.
According to a press statement by the Palace’s Director, Media & Public Affairs,Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni lauded the President for taking a historic step toward the socio-economic transformation of the South West region through the establishment of the SWDC, describing it as a “visionary move and a turning point in the region’s developmental trajectory.”
The monarch especially commended the appointment of Dr Charles ‘Diji Akinola as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the commission, describing him as an “outstanding technocrat with an impressive pedigree and passionate commitment to regional and national development.” Dr Akinola, a former Chief of Staff to the Osun State Governor, was hailed for his deep expertise in public-private partnerships, rural enterprise development, and international development cooperation.
The Ooni also praised the appointment of Senator Olu Adetunmbi as Chairman of the SWDC Board, calling him a “development expert whose leadership will further strengthen the Commission’s mandate.” He further applauded the inclusion of several distinguished individuals on the Board, including Hon. Princess Nike Omoworare, a proud daughter of Ile-Ife and the Osun State representative; Bolaji Ariyo, Joseph Olugbenga, Olumuyiwa Olabimtan, Adewinle Martins, Ibrahim Olaifa, Kabiru Lakwaya, Abdul Adamu (Rtd General), Arinola Fagbemi, Ukoha Onyekwere, Howell Ihenacho, Olugbenga Olufehinti, Tele Ogunjobi, Funmilayo Tejuosho, Fatai Ibikunle, and Lateef Ajijola.
Describing the board composition as “round pegs in round holes,” the Ooni emphasized that the appointments reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance and regional upliftment.
“We are particularly proud of the appointments of two illustrious Osun indigenes—Dr Charles Akindiji Akinola and Hon. Nike Omoworare—whose track records speak volumes about their capacity to deliver results,” the Ooni stated.
He urged the new leadership of the SWDC to approach their mandate with integrity, dedication, and a focus on delivering tangible benefits to the people of the South West, especially in addressing infrastructural deficits, ecological challenges, and security concerns.
The Ooni further called upon traditional rulers, state governments, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to rally around the commission in its mission to transform the region into a hub of economic prosperity and cultural renaissance.
“As the natural father of the Oduduwa race worldwide, I offer my blessings and unwavering support to the SWDC leadership. I have full confidence that Dr Akinola and his team will deliver on their responsibilities with honour and vision,” the statement concluded.
