VOX POPULI: Perceptions, Reflections and Tributes to Senator Olusesan Aina.

VOX POPULI: Perceptions, Reflections and Tributes to Senator Olusesan Aina.

...The Testimony of a Remarkable Legacy.

By Ola Asubiojo

There comes a season in the life of every great institution when history pauses to honour one of its finest architects.

 Such is this defining moment as the curtain gradually falls on the illustrious 30-year public service career of Mr. Olusesan Aina, fondly known across the Local Government family as "Senator," the retiring Executive Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), Ekiti State.

Across the sixteen Local Government Areas, the thirty-eight Local Council Development Areas, the Commission, NULGE, retired administrators and serving officers, one message echoes with remarkable unanimity: Senator Olusesan Aina leaves not merely an office, but an enduring legacy.

In a series of emotional, heartfelt and deeply reflective tributes, distinguished personalities and members of the Local Government family shared their perceptions of a leader whose administrative brilliance, humility, courage, integrity and uncommon humanity have become reference points for generations.

Among those who paid glowing tributes were:

Mr Akomolade Gabriel,a Trailblazing, organic humane permanent secretary of ekiti state local government service commission, noted in his pragmatic and proactive assessment of human features, that Senator olusesan Aina's tenure will remain a golden chapter in the Administrative history of the commission, defined by transparency, discipline and institutional excellence.

Commissioner Aladesanmi Aladesuyi who extolled his Administrative competence, loyalty to government policies and immeasurable contributions to strengthening the Local Government system in Ekiti State

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Commissioner Adedipe Olawole in his charismatic and objective mindset, described Senator olusesan Aina's uncommon accessibility and Unrivalled organic humane posture as special qualities or features that make people, either in the LGSC staff or non staff following him, because he's very very accessible.

Mrs Titilayo Toba-Ojo, Emeritus permanent secretary (Retired),in her humane and quintessential charismatic features, referred to him as a vibrant and dynamic administrator,whose professional structure and discipline, maturity and wisdom have become enduring lessons for younger officer, with vision for greater heights.

Comrade Olakitan Alatise, the Trailblazing HLA of Ado central LCDA, and a prominent dynamic NULGE Ekiti Union leader who affirmed that Senator olusesan Aina's uncommon accessibility, compassion and people - oriented leadership endeared him to officers throughout the Local Government system.

Mrs Akinbobola Deborah -Bosede, the HLA, Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government,in her enthusiastic and motivating features described him as an administrator whose humility gives hope,whose wisdom inspires confidence, and whose leadership transformed ordinary workers into extraordinary professional.

Mr. Osalade Festus (HLA, Ado West LCDA), who hailed him as a compassionate mentor, a dependable father and a fearless reformer whose decisions were always guided by fairness and justice.

Mr. Agbanigo Olawunmi, Coordinator of the Committee of Ekiti State Local Government Information Officers, who praised him as an exceptional communicator with an open-door policy, always willing to listen, encourage and inspire every cadre of staff.

Comrade Olatunde O.B., Ekiti State NULGE President, who celebrated him as a courageous defender of workers' welfare, an uncommon labour-friendly administrator and a bridge-builder whose partnership with organised labour strengthened industrial harmony.

Pastor Olatunji Oluwafemi (HLA, Ikole Local Government), who described him as a God-fearing leader whose integrity remained unwavering despite the enormous demands of public office.

Comrade Dele Ajayi, former Ekiti State NULGE President, who applauded his fearlessness, sincerity and unwavering commitment to protecting both the institution and its workforce.

Comrade Oluyemi Esan, former Ekiti State NULGE President, a political heavyweight,who described him as a rare public servant whose name will remain synonymous with integrity, accountability and selfless service.

Mr. Familoye Stanley Abiodun ,retired Executive Secretary, LGSC, who praised him as a worthy successor who not only sustained institutional values but elevated them beyond expectations.

Comrade Ayodele Aluko, former Ekiti State NLC President, former Ekiti State NULGE PRO and retired Permanent Secretary, who called him an embodiment of administrative excellence, labour diplomacy and uncommon humility.

Comrade Engineer Obaleye Soji, National NULGE PRO, who acknowledged his immense contributions to the growth of Local Government administration and his consistent support for organised labour across all levels.

Comrade Olawole Festus Aina, NULGE Chairman, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government (Igede-Ekiti), who described him as a dependable father figure, a source of inspiration and an exemplary servant-leader.

The People's Verdict

Beyond these eminent personalities, countless officers from all the sixteen Local Government Areas, thirty-eight LCDAs and departments of the Commission—too numerous to mention individually—echoed the same sentiments.

They spoke of a leader who:

Led with wisdom rather than intimidation.

Administered with justice rather than prejudice.

Built people rather than personal empires.

Protected institutional integrity above personal interest.

Combined professionalism with uncommon humility.

Inspired confidence through transparency and accountability.

Championed the dignity, welfare and advancement of Local Government workers.

Left behind stronger institutions and better-prepared future leaders.

As Senator Olusesan Aina prepares to take a deserved bow from active public service, the overwhelming consensus remains unmistakable: his retirement marks the end of an era but not the end of his influence.

His footprints are deeply engraved in the annals of the Local Government Service Commission. His ideals will continue to shape administrators. His mentorship will live in the lives of those he nurtured. 

His legacy will remain a guiding light for generations of public servants.

Indeed, some careers conclude with retirement; great legacies begin there.

Thank you, Senator Olusesan Aina, for thirty remarkable years of exemplary leadership, uncommon courage, unwavering integrity, selfless service and administrative excellence.

Your name has become a benchmark. 

Your legacy has become a reference point

. Your impact has become immortal.

Nigeria's Cassava Boom Needs an Industrial Leap ~ Oska Seyi Aiyeleso.

Nigeria's Cassava Boom Needs an Industrial Leap ~ Oska Seyi Aiyeleso.

Nigeria does not have a cassava production problem.

For decades, we have been the world's largest producer of cassava. Every year, millions of tonnes are harvested across the country. Yet despite this abundance, Nigeria continues to import many of the starches, sweeteners, flours and industrial derivatives that our manufacturers require.

That contradiction should concern all of us.

As we mark World Cassava Day 2026, the most important question is no longer whether Nigeria can grow cassava at scale. We already can. The real question is whether we can convert our production advantage into industrial advantage.

Around the world, countries that transformed agricultural abundance into economic prosperity followed a similar path. They moved beyond producing raw commodities and built industries around them.

Thailand is one of the most frequently cited examples in the cassava sector. Its success was not driven simply by growing more cassava. It was driven by investments in processing, product development, export markets and industrial applications. The lesson is straightforward: production creates supply, but industrialization creates value.

Nigeria has been standing at a similar crossroad for several decades now.

For many years, cassava has played a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods. Millions of farmers depend on it. Communities across the country depend on it. Yet only a small proportion of the crop is converted into the higher value industrial products that drive manufacturing growth and generate stronger economic returns.

I say this from experience leading both a large-scale cassava farming operation and a cassava processing business.

Our work is guided by a conviction championed by our Chairman, Niyi John Olajide, that agriculture can serve as a platform for industrial development when production, processing and market demand are connected within a single value chain.

That belief has shaped the investments Cavista Holdings has made through Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods. Together, we are working to strengthen the link between farms, factories and markets because sustainable growth occurs when all three operate as part of the same system.

Building those connections is not easy.

Industrialization requires reliable feedstock supply, modern processing infrastructure, efficient logistics, quality systems, access to finance and long-term investment. It requires coordination across stakeholders who often operate independently. Most importantly, it requires patience and disciplined execution.

The good news is that momentum is building. The challenge is that industrial demand is not expanding fast enough. In our daily operations, we receive requests from thousands of farmers seeking markets for their cassava. The interest is there. The production capacity is there. What remains insufficient is the industrial processing capacity needed to absorb that supply at scale.

That is the gap Nigeria must close.

Cassava is one of the most versatile crops in the world. Beyond traditional food applications, it serves as a feedstock for industrial starches, sweeteners, ethanol, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, paper products, animal feed and a growing range of manufacturing inputs.

The benefits extend far beyond agriculture. A stronger cassava industry creates demand for logistics, engineering, warehousing, packaging, financial services, technology and research. It strengthens local manufacturing, supports import substitution and creates jobs throughout the economy.

The opportunity extends even further. Increasingly, value creation is shifting beyond basic processing into ingredient systems, formulation science and product innovation. Competitive advantage today is determined not only by access to raw materials, but by the ability to transform those materials into products that manufacturers need and consumers value.

That shift should fundamentally change how we think about cassava.

However, no single company can drive this transformation alone. Success will require alignment between government, industry, researchers, investors and development partners. Policy must encourage investment. Infrastructure must support efficient operations. Markets must reward innovation and quality.

Nigeria's cassava story should no longer be measured only by how much we grow. It should be measured by how much value we create from what we grow.

For a country seeking sustainable pathways to economic diversification, few opportunities are as compelling. If we get this right, cassava will become more than a food security crop. It will become a strategic industrial resource capable of supporting manufacturing, creating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening economic resilience.

That is the opportunity before us. The raw material already exists. What remains is the collective commitment to build the industries that can unlock their full value.

 

Oska Seyi Aiyeleso is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Agbeyewa Farms and Matna Foods Limited.

TRIBUTE TO A LIVING LEGEND OF SELFLESS SERVICE.

TRIBUTE TO A  LIVING LEGEND OF SELFLESS SERVICE.

There are men whose footprints fade with time, and there are men whose footprints become permanent landmarks upon the sands of history. Mr. Olusesan Aina, fondly called "Senator," belongs to the latter.

By  August, we'll gather not to bid farewell to a career, but to celebrate a remarkable legacy spanning three decades of uncommon dedication, unwavering integrity, exceptional professionalism, and sacrificial service in the Local Government Service Commission.

Thirty years ago, you answered the call to public service. 

 You'll leave behind not just files and offices, but generations of lives transformed, institutions strengthened, and countless hearts inspired. Your career has become a reference point of excellence, discipline, diligence, accountability, and unwavering commitment to duty.

You have been far more than an Executive Secretary. You have been an organic humane leader, a quintessential administrator, a charismatic mentor, and a true moulder of future leaders. Your leadership has consistently reflected wisdom, humility, compassion, and justice. Through every assignment, you demonstrated that genuine leadership is measured not by power, but by service; not by titles, but by the positive impact made on humanity.

As one of the most courageous champions of the welfare and relevance of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Ekiti State, you stood firmly for justice, fairness, and the dignity of workers. Your voice gave hope to the discouraged, your courage strengthened the weak, and your unwavering loyalty to worthy causes earned you the admiration of colleagues and stakeholders alike..

Your life beautifully defines trustworthiness, selflessness, altruism, generosity, and compassion. Many have found encouragement through your fatherly counsel, assistance through your open hands, and direction through your exemplary leadership. You never sought applause, yet your noble deeds continue to speak louder than words.

Beyond your professional excellence, your graceful personality, admirable sense of style, and approachable nature made you a delight to work with. You combined competence with humility, authority with kindness, and discipline with genuine love for people.

Like the majestic eagle, you have completed one glorious flight and are now soaring into another season filled with greater possibilities. Retirement is not an end; it is Heaven's invitation to a higher dimension of fulfilment, greater influence, renewed purpose, and uncommon joy..

I am profoundly convinced that your retirement is not a departure from relevance but a divine promotion into greater heights beyond your imagination. The God whom you have served through faithful service to humanity will reward your labour abundantly.

 Your experience shall continue to illuminate paths, your wisdom shall remain a compass for emerging leaders, and your legacy shall continue to inspire generations yet unborn.

As the Holy Scriptures declare:

"The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day." — Proverbs 4:18

May your days ahead be crowned with divine health, overflowing peace, unending joy, supernatural favour, and immeasurable prosperity. May your children and generations after you rise to call you blessed.

 May your harvest always exceed your labour, and may the Lord continually establish the works of your hands.

Congratulations, Distinguished Mr. Olusesan Aina ("Senator").

Thank you for thirty remarkable years of excellence.

Thank you for proving that integrity still matters.

Thank you for mentoring future leaders.

Thank you for standing for justice.

Thank you for serving humanity with uncommon passion.

Your name is engraved not merely in the records of the Local Government Service Commission, but in the hearts of everyone privileged to have encountered your remarkable leadership.

May your sunset in public service become the sunrise of an even more glorious destiny.

Happy Retirement, our Organic Humane Leader, our Quintessential Administrator, our Courageous Mentor, our Distinguished "Senator."

Your legacy is secure.

 Your impact is immeasurable. Your best days are still ahead.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF SENATOR ANTHONY ADENIYI.

OJUAWO MOURNS THE PASSING OF SENATOR ANTHONY ADENIYI.

Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator Anthony Adeniyi, describing his death as a painful loss to Ekiti State, the progressive family, and the nation at large.

In a statement released on behalf of his constituents, Hon. Ojuawo said the news of Senator Adeniyi's demise came as a rude shock, particularly at a time when the nation continues to require the wisdom, experience, and patriotic contributions of elder statesmen committed to national development.

The federal lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late legal luminary, praying that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. He noted that Senator Adeniyi was not only a distinguished lawyer and accomplished politician but also a committed progressive whose contributions to the growth and stability of democratic governance in Ekiti State remain invaluable.

According to Hon. Ojuawo, the late senator played a significant role in the restoration and consolidation of progressive governance in the state. His exceptional legal expertise, courage, and dedication at critical moments in the political history of Ekiti contributed immensely to the victories and successes recorded by the progressive family. His service at the temple of justice and unwavering commitment to the rule of law earned him widespread respect across political and professional circles.

"Senator Anthony Adeniyi was a bold, fearless, and principled leader whose contributions to the development of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Nigeria as a whole cannot be overstated. As Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District from 2011 to 2015, he distinguished himself through quality representation, insightful contributions to legislative debates, and unwavering advocacy for the welfare of his constituents," Ojuawo stated.

He further remarked that the late senator's wise counsel, wealth of experience, and commitment to public service would be greatly missed by the people of Ekiti South, the APC family, and all those who had the privilege of working with him.

Hon. Ojuawo prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed statesman and asked God Almighty to comfort his family, friends, political associates, and the entire people of Ekiti State during this difficult period.

"May his noble legacy of service, integrity, courage, and commitment to justice continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in perfect peace."

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF APC CHIEFTAIN, SENATOR ADENIYI.

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF APC CHIEFTAIN, SENATOR ADENIYI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has mourned the death of a renowned lawyer and frontline leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Anthony Ademiyiwa Adeniyi (SAN). 

The late Senator Adeniyi, who represented Ekiti South Senatorial District in the Senate between 2011 and 2015, passed on Wednesday. He was aged 75 years. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the death of the late Senator as a huge a loss to Ekiti State, and Nigeria as a whole, as well as the legal profession and the APC family. 

According to the Governor, the story of the restoration of the mandate of the progressives in Ekiti State, which culminated in the swearing-in of former Governor Kayode Fayemi in 2010 would not be complete without a generous mention of the legal expertise of the late Senator Adeniyi. 

Governor Oyebanji said the late senior lawyer gave a vibrant and result-oriented representation to the people of Ekiti South Senatorial District during his tenure as a Senator in which he championed issues relating to constitutional reforms, electoral reforms, independence of the judiciary, better services by telecoms service providers and attraction of investment into the nation's economy.

Describing the late Senator Adeniyi as a consummate Bar leader, the Governor hailed the deceased for being a faithful officer in the temple of Justice with roles as Chairman of the Akure Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) between 1990 and 1992 and a National Executive Committee member of the association for many years.

He also hailed the tenure of the late Senator Adeniyi as the Chairman of the Board of the defunct Omega Bank during which the bank grew in capital base, expansion and corporate services to the banking public in Nigeria.

The Governor said the Ikere Ekiti-born legal luminary will be remembered for the worthy legacies he left behind and his selfless service for a greater Ekiti and a more prosperous Nigeria during his national service.

“The death of Senator Adeniyi is a huge loss to Ekiti and Nigeria as a whole. We lost a decent politician, a distinguished senior advocate of Nigeria and an illustrious son of the Land of Honour. 

“While we pray that the Lord grant him eternal rest, I encourage his children and members of his family to be comforted with the fact, the late Adeniyi lived a fulfilled life of service and leafy behind a good name and legacies that outlive him. May God grant him eternal rest”, the Governor added.

EKSCOTECH GETS FIRST DEPUTY RECTOR II AS GOVERNING COUNCIL RATIFIES DR. OGUNRINDE'S APPOINTMENT.

EKSCOTECH GETS FIRST DEPUTY RECTOR II AS GOVERNING COUNCIL RATIFIES DR. OGUNRINDE'S APPOINTMENT.

The Governing Council of Ekiti State College of Technology (EKSCOTECH), Ijero-Ekiti, has ratified the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Elizabeth Ogunrinde as the institution's pioneer Deputy Rector II, following her emergence in an election conducted by the Academic Board on June 3, 2026.

The creation of the office of Deputy Rector II became necessary following the recent transmutation of the erstwhile Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology into a full-fledged Polytechnic, now known as Ekiti State College of Technology (EKSCOTECH), and the subsequent recognition of the institution's new status by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Dr. Ogunrinde's appointment is widely regarded as a recognition of her outstanding academic accomplishments, administrative competence, professional experience, and longstanding commitment to the growth and development of the institution.

A seasoned academic, healthcare professional, and administrator, Dr. Ogunrinde has devoted over two decades of service to the institution, rising through the ranks from part-time lecturer to several strategic leadership positions. She previously served as Interim Head of the Community Health Department, Acting Head of Department of Community Health, Acting Head of Department of Public Health Nursing, Acting Dean of the School of Community Health, and Dean of the School of Community and Public Health.

Born on February 28, 1964, in Ise-Ekiti, Dr. Ogunrinde possesses an impressive academic profile spanning nursing, public health, health education, and community health. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Health Education from Ekiti State University, a Master of Science in Nursing Science (Community Health Nursing), a Master of Education in Health Education, a Bachelor of Nursing Science, and several professional qualifications in nursing, midwifery, public health nursing, and community health. She is also currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science (Community Health Nursing).

Throughout her career, she has distinguished herself as an accomplished scholar and researcher with numerous publications in reputable national and international journals covering public health, maternal and child health, health education, healthcare technology, family planning, and community development.

Beyond academics, Dr. Ogunrinde has played significant roles in institutional governance and development. She was a member of the Transitional Committee that facilitated the institution's conversion to a Polytechnic, served as Chairperson of the Committee of Deans, a member of the Management Board and Academic Board, Coordinator of Women in Technical Education (WITED), and has chaired and served on several strategic committees responsible for accreditation, staff development, discipline, admissions, and institutional advancement.

A member of several professional bodies, including the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, the Professional Association of Public Health Nursing Officers of Nigeria (PAPHNON), and the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria, Dr. Ogunrinde has attended numerous national and international conferences and professional development programmes.

Her distinguished service has earned her several awards and recognitions, including Best Lecturer Award, Best Dean Award, Awards of Excellence in Teaching and Discipline, Professional Excellence Awards, and honours from professional associations, alumni bodies, and faith-based organizations.

Stakeholders within and outside the Polytechnic community have described her emergence as Deputy Rector II as a well-deserved elevation, expressing confidence that her wealth of experience in teaching, research, administration, and community service will further strengthen the institution's drive towards academic excellence and sustainable development.

The appointment marks another significant milestone in the ongoing repositioning of EKSCOTECH as a leading Polytechnic committed to producing highly skilled manpower and advancing technological education in Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.

Ekiti 2026: House of Assembly Candidate, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, Congratulates Governor on Historic Re-Election, Receipt of Certificate of Return.

Ekiti 2026: House of Assembly Candidate, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, Congratulates Governor on Historic Re-Election, Receipt of Certificate of Return.

Following the landmark outcome of the Ekiti State gubernatorial election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ekiti East Constituency II House of Assembly seat, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed (TOA), has extended his warmest congratulations to the Executive Governor of Ekiti State on his successful re-election and formal presentation of the Certificate of Return for a second term.

In an official statement dated July 23, 2026, Barr. Ahmed described the Governor’s victory as a historic milestone in the political evolution of the state, noting that achieving a consecutive second term represents a novel and unprecedented feat in Ekiti State’s democratic history. According to the legal practitioner turned politician, the victory is a resounding validation of the Governor’s impactful leadership over the last four years.

Barr. Ahmed emphasized that the renewal of the Governor’s mandate by the electorate is a direct reflection of the deep-seated confidence the people of Ekiti have in his administration. He noted that it stands as a clear testament to the confidence reposed in the Governor's leadership by the good people of Ekiti State and a true reflection of his enduring service to the State.

As an active player in the state’s political landscape and a flagbearer for the ruling APC in Ekiti East Constituency II, Barr. Ahmed expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support and mentorship, stating that he has personally benefited from the Governor's benevolence and leadership support. He joined countless well-wishers across the nation to commend the Governor’s resilience, dedication, and steadfast commitment to driving progress in the "Land of Honour."

Looking forward to the next four years, the House of Assembly candidate expressed absolute confidence that the second term will serve as an era of consolidation, bringing sustainable development, deeper unity, and widespread prosperity to every nook and cranny of Ekiti State. While pledging his unalloyed loyalty and continued support to the administration, Barr. Ahmed prayed for a successful, peace-filled, and impactful second term as the Governor steers the affairs of the state until 2030.