Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun Celebrates SWDC MD/CEO Akinola at 70

By Joseph Sunday

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated Dr. Charles Akindiji Akinola, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South West Development Commission (SWDC), on his 70th birthday.

In a congratulatory message on Wednesday, Governor Abiodun described Akinola as an “accomplished public servant, development strategist, and visionary leader” whose contributions to national development have earned him widespread respect.

The governor said the milestone celebrates “a life dedicated to selfless service, visionary leadership, and institutional development.” He noted that Dr. Akinola’s career — spanning over three decades across government, international development, and the private sector — has been defined by excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.

Governor Abiodun praised Akinola’s pioneering leadership at the SWDC, saying it has laid a solid foundation for regional integration, economic transformation, and sustainable development in the South-West.

He highlighted Akinola’s extensive record of public service, which includes 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.

“Dr. Akinola has consistently deployed his vast experience and global exposure to advance public sector reforms, strengthen institutions, and promote inclusive economic growth,” Abiodun said. “He is one of Nigeria’s foremost development experts.”

The governor expressed delight at the vision Akinola has brought to the SWDC as its pioneer MD/CEO. “Under his leadership, the Commission is well positioned to drive regional integration, unlock economic opportunities, and accelerate sustainable development across the South-West,” he said.

He added: “It is equally gratifying that he continues to bring to this assignment the wealth of experience garnered from his numerous national and international engagements, including his invaluable contributions to development initiatives across the Niger Delta region.”

“On behalf of my family, the Government, and the good people of Ogun State, I congratulate Dr. Charles Akindiji Akinola on attaining the age of 70. I pray that Almighty God grants him many more years of sound health, wisdom, and continued service to our nation and humanity,” Governor Abiodun concluded.