Abiodun Celebrates SWDC MD Charles Akinola at 70, Praises Record of Public Service
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South West Development Commission (SWDC), , on his 70th birthday, describing him as an accomplished public servant, development strategist, and visionary leader.
In a congratulatory message issued to mark the milestone, Governor Abiodun said Dr. Akinola’s life and career exemplify selfless service, visionary leadership, and an enduring commitment to national development.
The governor noted that Dr. Akinola’s career, spanning more than three decades across the public service, international development, and the private sector, has been marked by excellence, innovation, and dedication to improving lives.
He commended the pioneering leadership of the SWDC chief executive, saying it has positioned the Commission to drive regional integration, economic transformation, and sustainable development across the South-West.
Governor Abiodun highlighted Dr. Akinola’s extensive record of public service, including his roles as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State, Chairman of the Technical Committee of the South-West Governors’ Forum on the SWDC Bill, Director-General of the Office of Economic Development and Partnerships, Chairman of the State Planning Commission, founder of Enterprise for Development International (EfDI), National Coordinator of the Sustainable Tree Crops Programme (STCP), Nigeria Country Director of TechnoServe Inc., and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Marine and Blue Economy.
According to the governor, Dr. Akinola has consistently leveraged his wealth of experience and international exposure to promote public sector reforms, strengthen institutions, and advance inclusive economic growth, earning recognition as one of Nigeria’s foremost development experts.
“I heartily felicitate the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South West Development Commission, Dr. Charles Akindiji Akinola, on the occasion of his 70th birthday. This remarkable milestone calls for gratitude to Almighty God for a life of impact and outstanding service,” Governor Abiodun said.
He added that Dr. Akinola had distinguished himself as an exceptional administrator and public policy strategist whose contributions had significantly shaped governance, economic development, and institutional reforms within and outside Nigeria.
The governor also praised the vision Dr. Akinola has brought to the South West Development Commission, expressing confidence that the agency is well positioned to unlock economic opportunities and accelerate sustainable development across the region.
Governor Abiodun further acknowledged Dr. Akinola’s contributions through his national and international assignments, including his service as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Marine and Blue Economy and his involvement in development initiatives in the Niger Delta.
On behalf of his family, the Ogun State Government, and the people of the state, Governor Abiodun congratulated the SWDC boss on attaining the age of 70 and prayed for many more years of good health, wisdom, and continued service to Nigeria and humanity.
