By Sayò Àlàgbé
There is no doubt that we live in the era of men and women of exploits, but we equally live in the era of rare and scarce examples of valuable men and women. It is beyond rhetorics that good people are scarce like diamond. This is one of the reality-checks of the contemporary time.
Amidst the scarcity of such noble personalities, Oyo State and Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde are blessed to have Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi. He is an honest and kind man beyond pretence. Frankly speaking, Chief Olusegun Ebenezer Ògúnwuyí will, no doubt, incur the wraths of the profiteers -in-mischief, most especially, in politics. But one thing is certain: people like him will always have their ways regardless of whose ox is gored. It is not enough to be privileged, but how one navigates the opportunities the privileges offer will go a long way in determining how one will be remembered. To buttress this, former American President, Abraham Lincoln, once affirmed that “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”
In the bustling corridors of political power in Oyo State, one figure stands out for his unwavering commitment, discipline, integrity, and efficiency. You don’t need to look too far, he is no other person than Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí, the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Sèyí Makinde, the Lord of the Ring of Omi Tuntun fame!
Rather than choose to lead, Hon. Ogunwuyi prefers to serve. As Oscar Wilde once reiterated: “Those who try to lead the people can only do so by following the mob.” As a result, since the assumption of his role, Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí has epitomized the quintessential attributes of a dedicated public servant, exhibiting honesty, respectfulness, diligence, and precision in executing his duties. This article, in all honesty, is aimed at x-raying his exceptional qualities and his pivotal role in Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, and the objectivity for portraying him as a paragon of administrative excellence and professional integrity.
Hon. Ògúnwuyí’s journey to becoming the Chief of Staff to the incumbent Governor Seyi Makinde is a testament to his remarkable aptitude and experience in public service. There is always a unique attribute that separates a leader from the pretender. As Steve Jobs, co-founder and former CEO of Apple, once observed: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” Significantly, with a distinguished career spanning decades in private and various governmental capacities, he has emerged as a seasoned administrator well-equipped to navigate the complexities of governance in Oyo State. His reputation for honesty, integrity, and competence preceded him, making him the ideal candidate for the pivotal role of Chief of Staff.
Upon assuming office, Governor Seyi Makinde without any iota of doubt, recognized his Chief of Staff’s unparalleled dedication to public service and entrusted him with the crucial responsibility of over-seeing the day-to-day operations of his administration. His appointment was met with widespread acclaim, affirmations and applause; as stakeholders lauded the Governor’s decision to enlist a seasoned professional, known for his unwavering commitment to excellence.
At the core of the Chief of Staff’s personality and character is an unwavering commitment to honesty and transparency. In his deliberations, interactions with colleagues, stakeholders, and the general public; he has been able to exemplify noble values that promote communication and decision-making processes are conducted with the utmost sincerity. Hon. Ogunwuyi is fully aware that “The led must not be compelled. They must be able to choose their own leader”, as stated by Albert Einstein. Moreover, his commitment to truthfulness has fostered climate for development, an environment of trust and accountability within the Engr. Seyi Makinde’s administration – which endears him to the people, and equally earned him the respect and admiration of his professional counterparts.
Being the Chief of Staff to the Number One citizen of the state, he meticulously shoulders a myriad of responsibilities critical to the effective functioning of the executive branch. His role encompasses both strategic planning and operational oversight, requiring a versatile skill-set and a nuanced understanding of governance dynamics.
Furthermore, Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí approaches every interactive session with a profound sense of respect for others, irrespective of their position or background. Whether engaging with fellow public servants, elected officials, or citizens, he demonstrates a genuine appreciation for diverse perspectives and values the input of every individual. Remarkably, his respectful demeanour likewise fosters a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, enabling effective team-work and constructive dialogue within the Governor’s Office.
Despite his strong leadership qualities, Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí recognizes the place of noble birth and importance of humility and submissiveness in serving the greater good of the general public. As Chief of Staff, he prioritizes the Governor’s agenda above personal interests, willingly deferring to his superior’s directives and priorities. His willingness to subordinate his own personality in the service of the administration’s goals underscores his unwavering commitment to effective governance and principled leadership.
Frankly, being renowned for his tireless work ethic and relentless pursuit of excellence, Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí embodies the spirit of industriousness in every aspect of his role. From meticulously planning the Governor’s schedule to coordinating interdepartmental initiatives, he approaches each task with diligence and dedication.
Based on the words of Sam Rayburn, the former Speaker of the House, United States of America, who noted empathically that “You cannot be a leader, and ask other people to follow you, unless you know how to follow, too.” Hon. Ogunwuyi’s contagious proactive approach to problem-solving and ability to multi-task effectively is enviable. He ensures that the Governor’s Office operates smoothly and efficiently, even amidst the most demanding daily challenges.
Importantly, within the framework and context of executing his duties as Chief of Staff, he consistently demonstrates remarkable degree of clinical finesse, combines strategic acumen with meticulous attention to detail. His keen analytical skills and astute judgment enable him to navigate complex policy issues and political dynamics with precision and dexterity. There is no controversy over that.
In conclusion, Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí s tenure as the present Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde stands as a reference to his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to public service. Through his honesty, respectfulness, submissiveness, industriousness, purposefulness, and clinical finesse, he has emerged as a stalwart guardian of good governance, embodying the highest ideals of integrity, professionalism, and dedication. As Oyo State continues to walk and work on the complexities of modern governance, Hon. Ògúnwuyí’s steadfast leadership ensures that the current administration remains steadfast in the pursuit of a brighter future for all citizens.
This article cannot but once again provide a comprehensive insights on Hon. Ségun Ògúnwuyí’s attributes, duties and contributions; as the Chief of Staff to the incumbent Governor of Oyo State offers values into his exemplary leadership and the impact of his stewardship on the governance.
…Sayò Àlàgbé, a media practitioner, is the CEO of Timfred Communications Nig Ltd. He is a culture promoter, radio consultant, author and publisher. He can be reached through [email protected]
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