Abeokuta, Ogun State – Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, delivered a powerful message on the critical role of innovation, adaptation, and technology in public service during the grand finale of Ogun State’s 2025 Public Service Day celebrations yesterday, Thursday, June 19, 2025. The event, held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, aimed to recognize and appreciate the dedicated public servants who are the bedrock of governance in the state.
In his lecture, titled “Public Service for the First Century: The Role of Innovation, Adaptation, and Technology,” Senator Salisu emphasised that the work of public servants transcends mere routine service delivery; it is fundamentally about transforming society. He highlighted that every impactful policy, program, and initiative that improves lives is intrinsically linked to the commitment, professionalism, and sacrifices of these civil servants. This, he argued, underscores the imperative for continuous reforms, particularly in enhancing transparency, efficiency, and technological integration to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.
Ogun State, like many other states in Nigeria, has been actively pursuing the digitalisation of its public service operations. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration has reiterated its commitment to reforms that promote efficiency, transparency, creativity, and professionalism within the civil service. Efforts are ongoing to digitize public service operations, to ensure a modern, responsive service capable of meeting citizens’ evolving needs. This includes initiatives like the deployment of Electronic Document Management Systems to reduce physical paperwork and streamline processes, as well as ongoing training programs for civil servants to enhance their digital literacy and adaptability.
Senator Salisu’s lecture reinforced these ongoing efforts, stressing the importance of equipping civil servants with the tools, training, and technology necessary to excel in this increasingly digital landscape.
The Senator was deeply honoured to share the stage with key figures in Ogun State’s governance. These included His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun (CON), who was ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele. Also in attendance were the Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Olufemi Onasanya, along with numerous Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments. Their presence, Senator Salisu noted, underscored the state’s unwavering commitment to recognising and uplifting public servants as the true drivers of progress.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of an Award of Recognition to Senator Salisu as the Guest Lecturer, handed to him by the Deputy Governor. He described this gesture not merely as a personal honour but as a testament to the collective belief in the ideas championed during his lecture – innovation, adaptability, and the critical role of public service in nation-building.
Senator Salisu concluded by extending his gratitude to every public servant, acknowledging their invaluable work, often performed behind the scenes, which keeps governance alive. He affirmed his commitment, in his capacity as Senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, to advocating for policies that empower public servants with the necessary tools, training, and technology to excel.
He encouraged all to continue pushing forward, serving with excellence, embracing innovation, and collectively building an Ogun State and indeed, a Nigeria, that all citizens can be proud of. The Senator concluded with the Yoruba adage, “Igbega Ipinle Ogun, ajọṣe gbogbo wa ni!” (The upliftment of Ogun State is our collective responsibility).
