PRINCE OLUSEGUN OMOJUWA BAGS DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARD AS ONDO STATE MAN OF THE YEAR
…Commends Governor Aiyedatiwa’s Leadership, Dedicates Award to “Our EASE Agenda”
In a moment of celebration and reflection, Prince Olusegun Omojuwa, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Ondo State, has been honoured with The Democrat News Magazine’s Distinguished Leadership Award as Ondo State Man of the Year 2025.
The ceremony was held at the OSDPC Event Centre, Japo Estate, Akure, was part of the magazine’s 7th anniversary celebration and drew dignitaries from across the state and beyond.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Prince Omojuwa expressed deep humility, noting that while it is not in his nature to accept awards, the significance of this recognition and the circumstances surrounding it compelled him to make an exception. He praised The Democrat News Magazine for its resilience in the face of economic and media industry challenges, commending its commitment to excellence and service to society.
Reflecting on the journey that led to the honour, Prince Omojuwa highlighted the transformative efforts of the Aiyedatiwa-led administration, emphasizing that the award is not a personal accolade but a reflection of the government’s dedication to progress and people-centered policies. “This award is undoubtedly testimony to the positive impact of our policies and programmes on the lives of our people,” he said.
He lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s visionary leadership, describing him as the “captain of Our EASE Agenda” and credited the Governor for trusting him with the responsibility to serve at the highest levels. “This award is a tribute to the indefatigable and transformative leadership of His Excellency… I dedicate this award to Mr. Governor and the good people of Ondo State,” he declared.
As he accepted the honour, Prince Omojuwa reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development of Ondo State. He pledged to continue working alongside the Governor to consolidate on existing achievements and push the boundaries of innovation and excellence. “Together, we will ensure Ondo State remains a beacon of hope and progress in Nigeria,” he concluded.
Several notable friends and colleagues spoke with the journalist at the occasion, including Alhaji Mallon Ogbaro, Alhaji Lazees Oluboyo (former Deputy Governor of Ondo State), Prince Bola, Luayor Lucky Jewel, Engr. Omowole, among others — all celebrating the impactful leadership of Prince Olusegun Omojuwa.
Other eminent Nigerians so honoured including Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo-First Female President, ANCOPSS, Ondo State & Principal, Ijapo High School, Akure
(Distinguished Leadership in School Administration & Ondo State Woman of the Year)
3.Hon. Barr. Kayode Taiwo Samson, LL.M-
Chairman, Akure East LCDA, Oda
(Distinguished Leader in Local Government Administration)
4.Evang. Oluwasola Ajayi David-MD, Glofes Petroleum Nigeria Ltd.
(Distinguished Leader in Business Management)
5.Prince Matthew Adegoke-CEO, Youth Primer Foundation & President, Legacy Elite Club, Akure (Icon of Humanitarian Services)
6.Hon. (Deacon) Mayokun Akinmoladun
CEO, Platilium TV
( Icon & Distinguished Political Leader of the Year).
7.Mr. Oluwafemi Ajayi Michael- CEO God’s Lovely Nigeria Enterprise (Distinguished Leadership Award in Public Service)
8.Hon. Ronke Aramide Akerele- Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President
(Distinguished Icon of Noble Impact)
9.Hon. David Ajobiewe
Special Assistant to the Governor on Mobilization- (Icon of Excellence in Political Service)
10.Hon. Adewale Akinrinlola
Councilor, Alade/Atosin Ward, Idanre LG
(Distinguished Leader & Youth Role Model)
11. Legacy Elite Club, Akure
Led by Prince Matthew Adegoke( Most Impactful Club in Ondo State)
Earlier in a lecture by Mr. James Adekunle, Director of the Ondo State National Orientation Agency (NOA), on the theme “Bridging the Divide: Fostering National Unity in a Diverse Nigeria”:
Mr. Adekunle opened by acknowledging Nigeria’s vast diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups, multiple languages, religions, and cultures. He emphasized that this diversity should be seen as a national asset, not a threat. Like different petals of a flower, the varied customs, traditions, and values of Nigerians contribute to the country’s collective beauty. However, he noted that despite this richness, diversity has often been mismanaged, resulting in deep divisions and mistrust among the people.
The guest speaker traced Nigeria’s divisions back to colonial rule, which administered regions separately and sowed seeds of ethnic rivalry. Post-independence, political competition among major ethnic groups and subsequent events like the civil war and military regimes worsened the situation. Today, disparities in infrastructure, economic opportunities, and political representation continue to fuel feelings of marginalization and ethnic loyalty, undermining the vision of national unity.
Mr. Adekunle stressed that unity is not optional but essential for Nigeria’s survival, peace, and development. He argued that true unity doesn’t mean erasing differences but appreciating them while working together toward common goals. Emphasizing shared understanding, mutual respect, and collaboration, he explained that social cohesion, trust in government, and national progress are only possible when unity is actively pursued and maintained.
Referencing past and present Nigerian leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Olusegun Obasanjo, and Bola Tinubu, he highlighted their calls for unity and national integration. Mr. Adekunle outlined practical steps toward bridging Nigeria’s divides: promoting shared values, cross-cultural interactions, inclusive education, equitable development, and responsible media. He emphasized that these strategies must be pursued through intentional policies and grassroots engagement.
In conclusion, Mr. Adekunle reminded the audience that unity is a continuous journey requiring collective effort, patience, and commitment. He urged Nigerians to embrace diversity, foster dialogue, and prioritize national interests over ethnic or religious loyalties. By working together and focusing on shared goals, he believes Nigeria can turn its differences into powerful tools for growth, democracy, and national pride. A united Nigeria, he affirmed, is the key to a resilient and prosperous future.
THE MAN PRINCE OMOJUWA OLUSEGUN, JP
Born into the noble lineage of Late Chief Earnest Omoniyi Omojuwa and Mrs. Remilekun Omojuwa (née Durojaye) of Igboegunrin, Prince Omojuwa Olusegun inherited a proud legacy of service, integrity, and community leadership. His father, the esteemed Chief Earnest Omojuwa—Creek Overseer in the old Ilaje District Council of Western Nigeria—was renowned for his elegance and unwavering advocacy for justice and equity. These values, deeply etched in his character, would come to define the son.
Prince Omojuwa began his educational journey at St. Jude’s Anglican Primary School, Atijere, and continued to Community Grammar School, Igboegunrin, where he completed his secondary education in 1981 with distinction. His academic brilliance earned him immediate employment as a teacher across both primary and secondary schools. In 1984, he gained admission into the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University), graduating in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Political Science.
His foray into public service began during his National Youth Service at the Mass Mobilisation for Social and Economic Reconstruction (MAMSER), now the National Orientation Agency (NOA), in Kauranamoda, old Sokoto State. There, he was recognised as the Best Corps Member, serving as Corps Liaison Officer and earning accolades for his innovative and impactful community development initiatives.
In 1989, Prince Omojuwa joined the Ondo State Local Government Service. His rise through the ranks—from Senior Community Development Officer to Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA)—was marked by uncommon diligence and excellence. He notably emerged first in the highly competitive HOLGA examination and interview process. For over three decades, he held several strategic roles across various local government areas, including Director of Personnel and Director of Manpower and Training at the Ondo State Local Government Service Commission. He was also instrumental in co-drafting the Ondo State Local Government Staff Regulations, 2009, a landmark document still in force today.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was nominated in 2011 for Leadership and Excellence in Public Service training in the United Kingdom. The same year, he won the COMSERVE Best Worker Award and Award of Excellence in Local Government Service, which earned him an accelerated promotion to Director (Admin.), GL 16.
Despite an already accomplished career, Prince Omojuwa’s passion for learning remained insatiable. He pursued and obtained a Master’s degree in Local Government Studies from Obafemi Awolowo University. He later earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, graduating with Second Class (Upper Division) in 2022.
While at Elizade University, he was admired not only for his academic rigour but for his compassion and generosity—often supporting fellow students with tuition and personal needs. Even while studying, he continued to serve. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor by the late Governor Arakunrin Rotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, working closely with the then Deputy Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
In 2022, he was elevated to the position of Permanent Secretary, and following his retirement in 2023, was recalled into service—first as Deputy Chief of Staff and, in 2024, as Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, a role he continues to discharge with characteristic dedication, loyalty, and administrative finesse. He remains deeply grateful to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the rare privilege to serve the people of Ondo State at such a high level.
Prince Omojuwa is widely celebrated for his tenacity, empathy, and exemplary leadership. His rare ability to listen attentively, his openness to ideas, and his gift for crafting practical solutions have endeared him to colleagues and communities across and beyond the state.
A Jerusalem Pilgrim (JP), devoted family man, prolific writer, and a man of deep thought and civic commitment, Prince Omojuwa embodies humility, wisdom, and excellence in public service. His unwavering support for education, institutional development and human capital growth firmly establishes him as a visionary leader—a man not only of his time but for all times.
Today, we honour and celebrate a man of substance — a friend of the people, a paragon of selflessness and quiet strength, and an unwavering pillar of public administration.
Prince Omojuwa Olusegun, JP, stands tall as a beacon of integrity, dedication, and visionary leadership. His life’s work reflects a deep commitment to service, marked not by noise but by noble impact — consistent, dignified, and enduring.
It is with immense pride and admiration that we recognize him as both an Icon and Ondo State Man of the Year — a well-deserved honour for a life lived in the service of others and for a legacy that continues to inspire.