There is an old African proverb that says, “A child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” This speaks to the fundamental truth that development is not a privilege but a necessity—when people are denied access to opportunities, education, and basic infrastructure, society itself suffers.
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has taken this wisdom to heart, embodying the same visionary leadership that defined Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nigeria’s foremost progressive thinker. Awolowo was a man who understood that true transformation begins with education and is sustained by infrastructure. Today, Governor Abiodun is walking firmly in those footsteps, ensuring that Ogun State becomes a shining example of what purposeful governance can achieve.
Awolowo’s legacy was built on the unshakable belief that education is the great equalizer—the tool that lifts societies out of poverty and ignorance. He once declared, “The children of the poor must have the same opportunities as the children of the rich,” and he backed those words with action, instituting free primary education in the Western Region at a time when few believed it was possible.
Decades later, Governor Abiodun is reigniting that same spirit, recognizing that in today’s world, education extends beyond the four walls of a classroom. It is about digital literacy, technological empowerment, and global competitiveness. This understanding led to the recent collaboration between the Ogun State Government and the US Consulate to launch the “Window on America” project at the Ogun Tech Hub in Abeokuta.
This initiative is far more than just another ICT center; it is a gateway to the world, a bridge connecting the ambitions of Ogun State’s youth to the vast opportunities of the global digital economy. Governor Abiodun, speaking at the unveiling, captured the essence of the project when he said, “This initiative represents more than a space; it is a platform for knowledge exchange, skills development, and peer-to-peer collaboration between our young minds and their counterparts not just in the United States but in the entire world.”
The center offers free programming courses, English conversation clubs, digital literacy workshops, and access to millions of American-authored books and academic resources. These are not just amenities—they are the tools that will shape the workforce of tomorrow. The Acting US Consular General, JoEllen Gorg, emphasized this when she described the space as a symbol of opportunity, designed to equip young Nigerians with entrepreneurial, leadership, and technological skills.
But education alone is not enough. Another African proverb reminds us, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Governor Abiodun understands that for education to translate into real prosperity, it must be supported by robust infrastructure—roads that connect communities, power that fuels industries, and security that ensures stability. This is why his administration has embarked on an unprecedented infrastructural revolution, touching every corner of Ogun State. Recently, the State Executive Council approved the reconstruction of several critical roads, including the 5.4 km Ogbeere-Orita Mobi Junction Road in Ijebu East, the 3.2 km Erinlu-Imosan Road in Odogbolu, and the 2.0 km Imodi-Imosan Road, also in Odogbolu. These projects are not just about laying asphalt; they are about opening up rural economies, reducing the burden on farmers and traders, and ensuring that no community is left behind in the march toward progress.
One of the most transformative projects currently underway is the reconstruction of the 8.17 km Magboro Underpass–Magboro–Makogi Road, where asphalt paving has now commenced. For years, this critical corridor was a nightmare for commuters and businesses alike, plagued by traffic gridlock and deteriorating conditions. But under Governor Abiodun’s watch, the road is being reborn, promising smoother transportation, enhanced commerce, and improved quality of life for residents. The project is a testament to the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and its understanding that infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth.
Yet, roads are just one piece of the puzzle. A society cannot thrive without security and reliable power. Recognizing this, the Abiodun administration has approved the procurement of ultra-modern security gadgets to strengthen the state’s security architecture. In a time when many parts of Nigeria are grappling with rising insecurity, Ogun State is taking proactive steps to safeguard its people and its investments. Additionally, the Onijaganjagan Independent Power Plant is set to provide stable electricity to Abeokuta and its environs, a move that will undoubtedly boost small businesses, reduce reliance on expensive generators, and attract more industries to the state. This is governance in action—tackling the root causes of underdevelopment rather than merely addressing symptoms.
Governor Dapo Abiodun appointment of
additional eleven Senior Special Assistants , one Special Assistant and twenty seven liaison officers across all the twenty local governments in the state is unprecedented and his alignment with the legacy and vision of the late Sage Baba Obafemi Awolowo of bringing developments to the people at the grassroots
Bringing Governance to the people has always been the Hallmark of any democracy and Governor Dapo Abiodun has therefore succeeded where his predecessor failed woefully. Amongst the newly appointed Senior Special Assistants are
Ayo Somide, Laide Okunola, Sulaimon Oduwole, Adewale Adesina, Hon. Ola Olufunmilayo, Tayo Mabeweje , Basibo Odoru, Hon. Kehinde Bello, Ikienomore Oladipupo Adedeji, Deluola Daniel Babatunde, Doregoes Aaron Oluwatobi
What makes Governor Abiodun’s approach truly remarkable is its alignment with the Awoist philosophy of holistic development. Awolowo did not just build schools; he built a system—free education, rural electrification, industrial estates, and farm settlements. Similarly, Abiodun is not just constructing roads or launching tech hubs; he is laying the foundation for a sustainable future where education, infrastructure, and security work in harmony to create prosperity. His leadership reflects the understanding that development is not a one-dimensional endeavor but a multifaceted mission requiring vision, courage, and relentless execution.
As the ancient African proverb says, “A tree does not grow in a day, but with patience, it becomes a forest.” The seeds that Governor Abiodun is planting today—through political appointments, education, infrastructure, and security—will grow into a forest of opportunities for generations to come.
The road ahead is long, but the direction is clear. Just as Awolowo’s legacy endures, so too will the impact of this human capital development and infrastructural revolution in Ogun State. The future is being built now, one project at a time, and the people of Ogun State are witnessing firsthand what it means to have a leader who truly governs with their best interests at heart.
In the end, and this comes to min: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Governor Abiodun is planting the seeds today, and Ogun State will reap the harvest tomorrow. This is True Awoism in action—a legacy of progress, empowerment, appointments and unwavering commitment to the people.
•Dr Abayomi Arabambi (FBAU)
Most Non-Controversial & Most Non-Confrontational Political Personality in Nigeria.
