...Gov Abiodun Commended for Commitment to Building Workers' Capacity

The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) is ready to organise a free training programme on "Strategic Foresighting" for the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun's nominated candidates, as part of efforts to consolidate on the economic blue print of the government.

The Director-General of the Institute, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, made this known while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of a 5-day Strategic Leadership and Management Course (SLMC), the third edition, facilitated by the Ogun State Government, for Permanent Secretaries, Principals-General, Headteachers-General, Statistician-General, Auditor-General as well as Heads of strategic Agencies of Government, held at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies - Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies (NIPSS-OSKASOGS), Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

According to him, the 20 people who would be the beneficiaries of the free course would be nominated by the Governor, which underscores his commitment to human capacity development, and expected to hold in June/July, 2026.

Prof. Omotayo appreciated in no small measure the Ogun State Government, under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun, for its continued investment in leadership development and institutional capacity building, saying the commitment underscores the State’s recognition that the quality of governance is directly linked to the competence of its leadership.

He noted that as Nigeria’s foremost policy think tank, NIPSS has remained resolute in its mandate to shape governance through high-level research, strategic policy advisory, and the continuous capacity development for public sector leaders, hence, the course is a clear demonstration of that enduring commitment.

He added that the Strategic Leadership and Management Course (SLMC-3) represents a deliberate and progressive step in strengthening leadership capacity within the Ogun State Civil/Public Service, as the edition is designed to deepen strategic thinking, enhance institutional effectiveness, and equip top-level administrators with the tools required to navigate the complexities of modern governance.

"Ogun State continues to distinguish itself as a forward-looking state with a strong commitment to institutional reform and administrative excellence. Your nomination to participate in this programme reflects a shared understanding that sustainable development is driven by competent, innovative, and disciplined leadership.

"As participants in this course, you are not only beneficiaries of this vision but also custodians of its ideals. It is expected that you will reflect these values in your leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to strengthening public institutions', he said.

Declaring the Course open, the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, said the Strategic Leadership and Management Course is a clear reflection of government's commitment to capacity building and noted that the initiative, which commenced as a strategic intervention for the Public Service of Ogun State, has continued to evolve and expand in scope and impact. 

"Following the successful participation of 57 top-ranking officials from Ogun State, including Permanent Secretaries, General Managers and Executive Secretaries, in the first edition of the Course just a year ago, Lagos State, equally desirous of strengthening the capacity of its leadership cadre and in fulfilment of the commitment made by its Head of Service, my colleague, Mr. Bode Agoro, during the Opening Ceremony of the maiden edition, participated in the second edition of the programme held in August, 2025.  We are gathered for the third edition and I am particularly pleased to note that Ogun State has once again demonstrated leadership and commitment by fielding a strong delegation to participate in this important programme.

"In the magnanimity of His Excellency, Ogun State is fully participating in this third edition with a contingent of 42 participants, comprising 8 Permanent Secretaries and 34 other Accounting Officers. This deliberate and strategic nomination of top-level officers underscores the premium placed on enhancing the leadership capacity of Accounting Officers and Chief Executives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the Gateway State.

"It is thus expected that participants will not only deepen their understanding of governance and leadership dynamics but also acquire the strategic insights required to navigate the complexities of modern public administration. Suffice to state that this Course is coming at a time when the Civil/Public Service of Ogun State is undergoing significant transformation which is driven by innovation and a renewed focus on efficiency and results", the HoS said.

He charged the participants that as leaders within the system, it is incumbent on all of them to align with the government's vision and translate the knowledge acquired into measurable improvements in service delivery within their respective MDAs.

"Distinguished participants, I urge you to approach this Course with a sense of purpose and discipline. Take full advantage of the opportunities for interaction, knowledge sharing and peer engagement. I am confident that the professionalism and high standards for which the State Public Service is known will be brought to the fore throughout and after the programme", he charged.

Mr. Onasanya lauded the leadership of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), as well as the management of the Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies for their continued partnership and for maintaining the high standards, quality and robust structure of the Course and noted that the Institute has over the years distinguished itself as a centre of excellence in policy and strategic leadership training.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Director, NIPSS–OSKASOGS, Prof. Sola Adeyanju said the third edition represents a consolidation of the gains of the previous editions in a more refined, experience-driven platform designed to further challenge assumptions, strengthen institutional thinking, and promote actionable policy outcomes.

He appreciated the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for his leadership and commitment to the successful transition of the School to NIPSS as well as his support at ensuring that Ogun State Permanent Secretaries formed the pioneer participants in the strategic journey, which reflects a strong dedication to institutional capacity building. 

He also appreciated the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, for his efforts at facilitating Courses not only for Ogun State but for Lagos and other Southwest States and urged the participants on collective commitment at fostering a responsive, efficient, and results-driven Public Service in Ogun State.