The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni has recommended strategic investments in the digital economy, youth empowerment and sustainable job creation as pathways to economic growth.

She made this known while presenting her report from the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, during the interactive meeting of the Head of Service with the Accounting Officers in the Civil/Public Service, held at the Local Government Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She described the digital economy as a major driver of productivity, innovation, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities, noting that, technological advancement is reshaping industries and creating new business models worldwide. It also highlighted Nigeria’s growing digital ecosystem, including the expansion of internet access, social media usage, financial technology, stressing the need for stronger infrastructure, digital literacy and wider access to technology.

The Head of Service identified inadequate digital infrastructure, low digital literacy, skills mismatch, limited industrialization and weak institutional capacity as major obstacles to maximising the benefits of the digital economy.

She recommended regular reviews of educational curricula to incorporate digital skills, vocational training and entrepreneurship development, alongside partnerships between educational institutions and the private sector to equip young Nigerians with skills relevant to labour market demands.

Dr. Fasina recommended establishing technology hubs and innovation centres, introducing vocational programmes in emerging technologies, integrating digital learning into the education system and expanding skills acquisition, reskilling and upskilling initiatives.

She said the study investigated how rising inflation had eroded workers’ purchasing power, making it increasingly difficult for low-income earners to meet up with the essential expenses, including food, transportation, housing and other household needs.

Dr. Fasina research recommended that the Oyo State Government approve a living wage above the N70,000 national minimum wage approved by the Federal Government, saying that, the state subsequently approved N80,000 as its minimum wage, an outcome highlighted in Dr. Fasina’s  study’s recommendations

She then expressed appreciation to God and Governor Seyi Makinde for her nomination to attend the executive course, hinting that, the knowledge and recommendations from the course provided valuable insights into digital transformation, workforce development and economic policies that could support sustainable growth and improve the welfare of workers in Oyo State.

The Accounting Officers commended the Head of Service for her professional and administrative expertise, expressing their appreciation for the wealth of knowledge and experience she acquired at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, which they said would greatly benefit the Oyo State Civil/Public Service.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The Oyo State Government has commenced indoor Games  for Civil/ Public Servants as part of activities marking the 2026 Public Service Week, with a charge on workers across the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to demonstrate team spirit, sportsmanship and healthy competition.

In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital. Dr. Aremu urged Civil/Public Servants to support their respective MDAs and participate actively in the competition, which features nominated representatives from various Government establishments.

He explained that the indoor games comprise chess, Scrabble, draughts, Ayo Olopon, Ludo and table tennis, hinting that, the game is designed to promote unity, encourage teamwork, enhance participant’s cognitive abilities as well as hand – brain coordination

Dr. Aremu pointed out that the games would help develop strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and calculative skills among workers, which, according to him, would improve their capacity to discharge their official responsibilities effectively.

The Committee Chairman noted further that the competition would foster healthy rivalry among the MDA’s and stimulate productivity by encouraging participants to think quickly, remain focused, and embrace their responsibilities with renewed commitment.

He urged participants to uphold fairness and sportsmanship throughout the competition, adding that the objective of the game  is not merely to win but also to strengthen the bond among workers in the State public service.

Dr. Aremu enjoined participants to remain calm and conduct themselves fairly, hinting that overall winners from the game would receive certificates of award and other benefits during the grand finale of the 2026 Public Service Week.

Dr. Aremu commended the present administration in the State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde and the State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni for providing Civil/Public Servants with a level playing field to showcase their God-given talents in different sporting activities.

He maintained that the initiative would further strengthen relationships among workers, promote physical and mental alertness, and contribute to improved service delivery across the State’s public service.

Dr. Aremu said the grand finale, which will feature the Productivity Day Award ceremony, would be communicated to the various MDA’s in due course.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni has charged Civil/Public Servants in the State to uphold professionalism, integrity and transparency in the discharge of their duties.

Dr. Fasina gave this charge on Monday during the kick-off ceremony of the 2026 Public Service Games football competition held at the Ikolaba High School Mini Sports Complex, Agodi-GRA, Ibadan.

She described the annual Public Service Games as an avenue to strengthen unity, friendship and bonding among Civil/Public Servants across the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the State.

The Head of Service urged workers to participate actively in the various programmes lined up for the 2026 Public Service Week, including lectures, sporting activities and the Public Service Merit Awards.

She said  “this celebration is not only about sporting activities but also an opportunity for workers to appreciate God, identify with one another and demonstrate the unity and collective strength of the public service.

Dr. Fasina said, “We start our annual week with a football competition. I charge you all to troop out en masse to celebrate ourselves in the other programmes, lectures and award ceremonies lined up for the 2026 Civil Service Week celebration.

“To whom much is given, much is expected, always embrace professionalism, integrity and transparency in the discharge of your duties, we are celebrating our week to appreciate God, identify with one another and show the system that we are one and we are moving forward.”

She commended the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for providing the platform for the State’s Civil/Public Servants to celebrate another Public Service Week.

Dr. Fasina described Governor Seyi Makinde as a “talk and do” Governor, while appreciating him for approving another transport subsidy allowance for Civil Servants in the State.

She noted that the welfare initiatives of the administration had continued to demonstrate its commitment to improving the well-being and morale of workers.

The Head of Service enjoined  Civil/Public Servants to reciprocate the gesture by remaining committed, dedicated and professional in the discharge of their responsibilities to the people of Oyo State.

The 2026 Public Service Games football competition is one of the activities lined up for the celebration of the 2026 Oyo State Public Service Week.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni has urged retiring Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service to continue contributing their wealth of experience and expertise to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

She gave this charge during the maiden edition of the Experience Sharing Forum, tagged “Courtesy Visit to the Head of Service,” organised for two retiring Accounting Officers, Mr. Olajide Okesade and Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, at the Head of Service, Conference Room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She said the forum was designed to promote knowledge transfer and strengthen institutional memory within the Oyo State Public Service, the initiative would enable serving officers, particularly younger civil servants, to benefit from the wealth of experience, knowledge and wisdom accumulated by retiring senior officers during their years of service.

The Head of Service noted that the retirees’ insights on leadership, policy implementation, human resource management, institutional continuity, financial discipline and the challenges of public administration would serve as valuable lessons for the Service.

She said. “As you prepare to retire from active service, I urge you to remember that while retirement marks the end of one phase of your career, it is the beginning of another opportunity to contribute to society”.

“Your experience, wisdom and networks remain valuable assets, and I am confident that you will continue to make meaningful contributions to the development of Oyo State and the nation at large.”

Dr. Fasina stated that the present administration in the State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde  was committed to leaving the State Public Service better than it met it.

She charged serving Permanent Secretaries to mentor younger officers, document institutional knowledge and establish systems that would promote continuity, efficiency and sustainability in the Service.

She congratulated the retiring Permanent Secretaries on the successful completion of their careers, appreciating them for their years of dedicated service to Oyo State.

“On behalf of the Government and the entire Oyo State Public Service, I congratulate you on the successful completion of your careers and sincerely thank you for your years of dedicated service to the State, I wish you good health, peace, fulfilment and continued relevance in your post-service years,”

Responding, the retiring Permanent Secretaries, Mr. Olajide Okesade, formerly of the Ministry of Trade and Investment and Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, expressed appreciation to the Head of Service for initiating the programme and for honouring them as they bowed out of the Civil Service of the Pacesetter State.

They described the forum as a commendable initiative that would encourage knowledge sharing and provide an avenue for retiring officers to pass valuable lessons and experiences to their successors and younger colleagues.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni, has urged Civil/Public Servants across the State to prepare adequately and cooperate with relevant stakeholders for the successful conduct of the (CONPROA) Examination.

Dr. Fasina gave this charge during a critical stakeholders engagement and facility tour of designated examination centres across the State as part of preparations for the 2026 examination.

The Head of Service who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Mr. Taiwo Niran Mustapha explained that the stakeholders committee was constituted in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 6 of the 2013 Public Service Rules, Volumes 1 and 2.

She noted that the committee had carefully reviewed reports received from various zones and identified some grey areas requiring attention.

She said the engagement was aimed at bringing all stakeholders on the same page regarding the processes and procedures to be followed before, during and after the examination.

She said “this engagement would provide an opportunity to address identified challenges, clarify areas of uncertainty and establish a common understanding of the responsibilities of all stakeholders towards ensuring a smooth, credible and successful examination exercise”.

Dr. Fasina also disclosed that participants would be introduced to a new application developed for the registration process, with a practical demonstration of its operation.

She explained that the innovation was designed to enhance efficiency, minimise errors and promote greater accountability throughout the registration process.

She therefore urged the stakeholders to pay close attention to the practical presentations and discussions, as well as seek clarification on areas requiring further explanation.

The Head of Service warned stakeholders against examination malpractice, stressing that such acts could tarnish their image and that of the public service.

She reminded the coordinators that leadership was not merely about occupying a position, but about effectively discharging the responsibilities entrusted to them in their respective areas.

Dr. Fasina emphasised the importance of the Compulsory Papers Examination to Civil/Public Servants, noting that it forms an important part of their promotion, confirmation and career advancement.

She expressed confidence that the collective commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders would contribute to a successful and credible examination, as part of the preparatory activities, the team inspected designated examination centres, including Queen’s School, Government College, Ibadan, and Obaseku High School, Eruwa.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Adenike Fashina mni, has called on Civil/Public Servants across the State to uphold the core values of integrity, transparency, punctuality and professionalism in service delivery.

She made this call while addressing staff members from the Office of the Head of Service held at the HOS conference room, Secretariat, Ibadan, where she commended Permanent Secretaries, Directors, others  for their performance on duty.

She emphasized strict compliance with Civil Service rules and regulations, stressing the importance of confidentiality in handling official documents, just as she urged workers to embrace modest dressing, promptness, accountability and strong sense of duty, noting that every file processed in the system affects individuals and families livelihood.

The Head of Service encouraged continuous training and knowledge sharing among officers to improve efficiency, while acknowledging ongoing efforts to address challenges such as office facilities and running costs.

She admonished staff to work in unity, support each other and remain committed to building a more effective and disciplined public service, as she  prayed for peace and progress in the State and the country at large.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Office of the Head of Service, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha said public service operates on enduring values, neutrality, impartiality, respect for legality and a fair reward system that recognises excellence.

He assured the current Head of Service, absolute staff loyalty, cooperation and commitment to the successful implementation of the vision of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde.

“Your Honour, as you assume this noble responsibility, be assured of our unwavering support and collective commitment, we pledge our loyalty, professionalism and dedication to your success”.

He continued. “Office of the Head of Service is blessed with highly skilled, dedicated, loyal and resourceful officers whose competence can compare favourably with that of their counterparts anywhere in the world, we are confident that under your leadership, they will continue to excel and bring honour to the Service”.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

As May 2026 approaches, the corridors of the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, prepare to bid farewell to a titan of public administration, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni, the Oyo State Head of Service (HOS), is set to transition into retirement, leaving behind a legacy defined by structural reform, meritocracy and  unwavering commitment to the Pacesetter State ethos.

The career impact and transformative leadership of a woman who bridged the gap between traditional bureaucracy and modern governance.

​When Mrs. Olubunmi Oni assumed office in May 2023 with a funfair to the Office of the Head of Service. she did so with a clear mandate to professionalize the workforce and align it with the “Omituntun 2.0” vision of Governor Seyi Makinde. Her tenure has been characterized by the philosophy that a state is only as efficient as its civil service.

​ One of her most significant contributions was the overhaul of the Confirmation, Promotion, and Advancement Examinations. Under her leadership, the dreaded “fail one, fail all papers” policy was abolished.

In late 2025, she clarified that examinations were no longer hurdles designed to frustrate workers but tools for professional competence.

She allowed officers to resit only failed subjects, she boosted morale and ensured that carrier progression was based on specialized knowledge, intellect, rather than luck.

​Mrs Olubunmi Oni was a relentless champion for staff working conditions, ensuring that Governor Makinde’s worker-friendly policies including the consistent payment of salaries and 13th-month bonuses were implemented seamlessly.

The Head of Service also integrated social responsibility into her role. From distributing food items at the Rehabilitation Center for Disabled in Moniya to visiting Juvenile Correctional Centers, she redefined the HOS role as one that looks after the most vulnerable in the society.

Meanwhile.​​ Her designation as Member of the National Institute (mni) the highest honor for policy and strategic studies in Nigeria was evident in her administrative style.

Nevertheless, Her approach was never reactionary, it was always strategic.  navigating the complexities of the 2025 Promotion Exams or managing the inter-agency dynamics between the Civil, Judicial and Legislative services, her “Kuru” training provided the intellectual backbone for a stable Oyo State Civil Service bureaucracy.

​Mrs. Oni prepares to hand over the baton, the “Oyo State Civil Service” she leaves behind is vastly different from the one she inherited. It is more resilient, more professional and more compassionate.

​She didn’t just manage the civil service, she nurtured it.

She said. ​”As we set our goals please let us remember that faithful action and perseverance are key to success.”

Interestingly, ​as she exits the Agodi Secretariat, her legacy remains etched in the streamlined files, the promoted officers and the Pacesetter spirit she helped revitalize.

She said “Since I assumed office as the Head of Service, my team has made significant strides in the following areas,

-Implementing performance management systems, by enhancing accountability and transparency

– Developing leadership training programes, by building capacity for current and future leaders

– Strengthening our policy framework, by driving strategic reforms and innovations

– Fostering a culture of excellence, by  recognising and rewarding outstanding performances”.

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde described Mrs Olubunmi Oni as a through bred professional administrator, very hard working, reliable and accessible, I met her when she was the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services, Governor’s Office, she understand the Civil Service procedure and processes.

Professor Babatunde hinted further that Mrs Olubunmi Oni has a good coordinating capacity she is like the “mother end”, she always looks after the welfare of other cabinet members, she is a good leader. In terms of capacity building she has been able to Train Civil/Public Servants and expose them to the other side of the world.

Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe is the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Oyo State said Office of the Head of Service, Ministry of Establishments and Training and Civil Service Commission work closely in the areas of promotion, recruitment and many other service policy implementations, she always gave us an idea to do the work efficiently.

Engineer Funminiyi Fagade, the Director High way, Ministry of Works, Oyo State said when Mrs Olubunmi Oni was working as a Chief administrative officer at the Works Ministry, she has a good carriage, she trained us to be punctual at work and dedicated to duty, she is a cool headed person her intellectual and administrative prowess is superb.

Mrs Aramide Adebiyi is the Chairman,  Administrative Officers Forum, Oyo State described Mrs Olubunmi Oni as a team player, her love for Administrative Officers Cadre cannot be over emphasized, I am happy for her as she is bowing out of Civil Service of Oyo State, she has reposition the Civil Service to the enviable heights, adding that, she has mentored so many people in the service.

Dr Sunday Ojelabi is the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources said the outgoing Head of Service is a trailblazer I wish her success as she is bowing out of Oyo State Civil Service meritoriously.

Olajide Okesade, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperative and Industry said he work with Mrs Olubunmi Oni as a Director at the Governor’s Office, she is an embodiment of competence and Civility, she is creative, she is the first female Members of the National Institute (mni) in Oyo State.

Taiwo Niran Mustapha is the Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Office of the Head of Service, Oyo State said Mrs Olubunmi Oni is a wonderful human being, I have the opportunity of working directly with her, highly intelligent, she is a trust worthy person, go getter, easy going and encyclopedia of the Civil Service.

Hon. Justice M.O Ishola, Judge from the Oyo State High Court said Mrs Olubunmi Oni is a focused person, she has the determination to succeed what really brought us together then was the academic pursuit in our youthful days, I know she will leave a long lasting legacy for the Civi Service of Oyo State.

Dr. Mrs Mogbonjubola Owolabi is the Provost, Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences described Mrs Olubunmi Oni as a courageous woman “when we were in Olivet High School, Oyo. She has courage, we always like to copy her boldness and she speaks the truth.

Dr. Mofoluwake Ibitoye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information said Mrs Olubunmi Oni has mentored so many people in the service, we will still need her counsel after her retirement. I wish her a very fruitful retirement, I love her.

Dr. A.A Fasina, mni, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Oyo State described the outgoing Head of Service as a brilliant person and a trailblazer, we will all miss her.

Mrs Bamidele Oyinloye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology said Mrs Olubunmi Oni is accessible, highly cerebral and ready to assist anytime, she is very energetic, I wish her happy retirement.

Mrs Serifat Abimbola is the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Teaching Service Commission said Mrs Olubunmi Oni is a mother to all, as a Matter of fact we always call her our mother end, she is so reliable and a leader by all standard.

Pastor Adeola Oduola, Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Oyo State said the outgoing Head of Service is an epitome of humility and she is a team player. As she is retiring from active service the Lord will take her to the higher level.

Congratulations Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni, fcipm.

Abiodun Atilola

Head of Media and Publicity, SSG/HOS Office. Oyo State.

The Oyo State Head of Service. Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has charged Churches in Nigeria to continue to stand as a beacon of hope, a voice of truth and a pillar of moral guidance to the society.

She stated this during the opening ceremony of the 20th synod of the Methodist Church Diocese, Age, Igbo Elerin, Ibadan, with the Theme; “I Will Fight For You”.

She said the  theme of the synod echoes Exodus 14:14, where Moses tells the Israelites, trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea: “The LORD shall fight for you and you shall hold your peace. ”God demonstrated His ability to deliver by parting the Red Sea, drowning the enemy and setting His people free, this account shows that when God fights for His people, no obstacle is insurmountable.

The Head of Service said the Church is more than a place of worship; it is a moral and spiritual pillar of the nation. Its contribution to national security is both spiritual and practical.

“For Nigeria, this means we can trust God’s power while also doing our part, praying fervently, acting justly and supporting the structures that protect lives and property”.

She continued, “at this moment in our nation’s history, we are reflecting on the theme “I Will Fight for You. ”These words are not merely a slogan; they are a divine promise that has carried God’s people through every age and they speak directly to our present reality.

Mrs. Oni hinted further that God’s promise to fight for us does not imply passivity on our part, throughout the Scripture, divine intervention worked hand in hand with human responsibility.

“In a time like this, when our society is confronted with numerous challenges moral, social and economic the role of the Church becomes even more critical”.

“The Synod is not merely a routine meeting; it is a sacred platform for reflection, renewal and collective decision-making under divine guidance. It is a time for the Church to assess its journey, strengthen its mission and chart a forward-looking course in fulfilling its spiritual and societal responsibilities. Such gatherings remind us that the Church is both a spiritual family and a moral force in the life of the nation”.

She added that Churches can mediate conflicts, counsel aggrieved parties and preach messages that reduce ethnic and religious tension in a diverse nation like Nigeria, the Church’s voice for peace is indispensable.

She enjoined Churches to partner with security agencies by sharing information, organizing community watch groups, providing safe spaces and praying for the security personnel for their protection and for God to expose any act of betrayal or compromise, as Judas Iscariot betrayed Christ, many lives have been lost to banditry and kidnapping, including evangelists, clergy, engineers and other gifted citizens who could have contributed to our nation’s development.

She opined  that many security challenges stem from poverty and idleness, the Church can offer vocational training, youth mentorship and support for the vulnerable, both in cities and in rural communities by removing the conditions that fuel crime.

“Nigeria’s security is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces, it is a collective effort. The Synod is not merely a routine meeting; it is a sacred platform for reflection, renewal and collective decision-making under divine guidance. It is a time for the Church to assess its journey, strengthen its mission, and chart a forward-looking course in fulfilling its spiritual and societal responsibilities. Such gatherings remind us that the Church is both a spiritual family and a moral force in the life of the nation’s task in which the Church lights the path of hope, truth, and unity.

“I am particularly delighted to note that the Methodist Church has remained steadfast in its commitment to spiritual growth, community development and nation-building. Your contributions in education, healthcare, and the moral upbringing of our youths are commendable and worthy of emulation.

She admonished the Church to continue partnering with the Government and other stakeholders in promoting good governance, peace, and sustainable development to  build a society that is just, prosperous and harmonious.

In his remarks, The Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, Rt. Rev. Simeon.  Onaleke appreciated the Head of Service for the word of encouragement, saying that, the 20th Synod will be fruitful, spirit-filled and impactful.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

‎The Oyo State Government has released the results of the 2025 Confirmation, Promotion, and Advancement Examinations conducted in December 2025.
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‎The Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, disclosed this in a statement issued by her office this morning.
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‎According to the statement, the results are for the examinations held on Wednesday, December 17, and Thursday, December 18, 2025.
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‎Candidates who participated in the exercise are advised to check their results via the designated online portal.
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‎The statement congratulated candidates on their participation and performance in the examinations, while urging those with complaints to submit their concerns through the approved online channel.
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‎The State Government, through the Office of the Head of Service reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the examination process.

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, has praised Governor Seyi Makinde for introducing a welfare package aimed at cushioning the impact of the ongoing fuel price hike on civil servants in the State.

In a statement issued in Ibadan, Mrs. Oni urged civil and public servants across Oyo State to reciprocate the government’s gesture by redoubling their efforts and maintaining efficiency in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The statement said, ‘ The welfare package is both a form of support and a motivation for improved productivity. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.

She emphasized that the governor’s initiative reflects his recognition of the dedication and hard work of the state workforce.

Mrs. Oni noted that Governor Makinde has great empathy towards the civil and public service  and had demonstrated it through his  proactive leadership by approving the payment of March salaries before the 25th of the month to  enable workers to prepare for the Sallah celebrations without financial strain.

She added further that the governor approved a flat-rate support payment of ₦10,000 for all civil servants, regardless of grade level, including permanent secretaries, even before any formal request was made.

She described the gesture as timely and impactful, particularly in addressing transportation challenges caused by the rising cost of fuel.

She said. “To some people, it might be insignificant, but for us as civil servants, it is something we did not even expect,” she stated.

The Head of Service expressed gratitude to the governor for prioritizing worker’s welfare, adding that civil servants in the State would remain committed to contributing their best towards accelerated development in the state.

Mrs. Olubunmi Oni assured  that the state workforce would continue to support the present administration’s vision by working diligently in service to the people of Oyo State.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS