For Dr Akindiji Akinola Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, turning 65 is, indeed, a big deal; one worthy of celebration.
Akinola, a development expert, was thankful to God on the occasion of the birthday celebration. Interestingly, the scholar, public and private sector consulting developer and author was also celebrated by no other personality than President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a goodwill letter, the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the President, Spokesman, Femi Adesina, felicitated with the scholar whose contributions to development cuts across public policy, private sector consulting and civil society engagements.
President Buhari’s letter conveyed prayers of longer life, good health and strength for Akinola as he serves his state, Osun and the country.
Similarly, Oyetola, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, said he is happy to be associated with the development expert, scholar and public servant on his birthday anniversary.
“On behalf of my family, the government and good people of the State of Osun, I felicitate with my friend and Chief of Staff, Dr Charles Diji Akinola on the auspicious occasion of your 65th birthday anniversary,” read the statement.
“I thank God for your life and for letting you reach this age. You have been a loyal and dependable ally. I am happy to be associated with you and proud of your accomplishments in both private and public life. Indeed, your life is worth celebrating.
“You have no doubt brought to bear your knowledge, expertise and rich experience in your position as my Chief of Staff and added value to our administration. We appreciate your robust service to our dear State and country at large.
“It is our prayer that God Almighty will continue to bless, guide, protect and grant you a longer life as you continue to contribute to the growth and development of Osun and Nigeria.”
Akinola’s career spans the intersection of public policy, private sector consulting and civil society development.
Educated at the University of Ife, University of Ibadan and Harvard University, Akinola taught at the University of Ibadan from 1984 till 1989, and was on the training and research faculty of the Pan African Institute for Development (PAID) in Buea, Cameroon in 1990.
Before his current appointment as the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun, Akinola had served as the Director-General, Office of Economic Development and Partnerships between 2010 and 2018. He also Chaired the State’s Planning Commission, working with leading development partners to deliver sustainable development in the state. In these positions, he has brought to bear his expertise and rich experience in expanding the space for innovation in governance.
