The Ijesa Community Development Assembly has lauded President Bola Tinubu for nominating Dr. Charles Akinola as the inaugural Managing Director of the newly created South West Development Commission, describing the decision as a visionary leap toward regional transformation.
In a statement issued over the weekend, ICDA Chairman, Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi, described the appointment as a fitting national recognition of Akinola’s exemplary contributions to public service and regional development.
“This prestigious and well-deserved appointment is a glowing testament to Dr. Akinola’s enduring legacy of excellence, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service, particularly demonstrated during his meritorious tenure as Chief of Staff to the former Governor of Osun State, His Excellency Adeboyega Oyetola,” Fasuyi said.
He further praised Akinola’s reputation for innovation and strategic foresight, noting that his leadership at the helm of the SWDC will help unlock the economic potential of the South West region.
“Dr. Akinola has consistently exemplified brilliance, innovation, and strategic insight in governance, development planning, and capacity building. These are qualities that will undoubtedly position the South West Development Commission as a beacon of regional transformation, economic empowerment, and inclusive growth,” Fasuyi added.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu, he said, “The entire Ijesaland is immensely proud of this national recognition and expresses deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his foresight in entrusting this critical mandate to such a competent and illustrious son of Ijesaland.”
Akinola’s nomination, sent last Thursday to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for confirmation, was submitted alongside that of Senator Olubunmi Adetunbi, nominated as Chairman of the SWDC Board, and other principal board members.
From 2018 to 2022, he was Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State, where he played a leading role in shaping strategic initiatives and fostering regional collaboration.
Akinola holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension from the University of Ibadan and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, where he was an Edward S. Mason Fellow.
He has also studied at the University of Cambridge, Cranfield University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
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