The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in establishing the South West Development Commission (SWDC), describing it as a landmark step toward addressing the developmental needs of the region.
In a statement issued by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni, who also serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), expressed gratitude to the President for appointing what he described as “credible and competent individuals” to lead the newly created commission.
He specifically lauded the appointment of Dr. Charles ’Diji Akinola as the pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SWDC, describing him as an outstanding technocrat with a strong track record in public-private partnerships, rural enterprise development, and international development cooperation.
“Dr. Akinola is a seasoned development expert with vast experience, including his service as former Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State. His appointment is a visionary choice and a historic turning point for the region’s developmental trajectory,” the Ooni stated.
Ooni Ogunwusi also praised the selection of Senator Olu Adetunmbi as Chairman of the SWDC board and highlighted the inclusion of Hon. Princess Nike Omoworare as Osun State’s representative on the commission, acknowledging her commitment to regional development and public service.
Describing all the appointees as “round pegs in round holes,” the monarch listed other board members as Bolaji Ariyo, Joseph Olugbenga, Olumuyiwa Olabimtan, Adewinle Martins, Ibrahim Olaifa, Kabiru Lakwaya, Abdul Adamu (Rtd.), Arinola Fagbemi, Ukoha Onyekwere, Howell Ihenacho, Olugbenga Olufehinti, Tele Ogunjobi, Funmilayo Tejuosho, Fatai Ibikunle, and Lateef Ajijola.
The Ooni emphasized that the appointments reflect President Tinubu’s dedication to inclusive governance and his commitment to transforming the South West into a hub of economic growth and cultural renaissance.
He urged the newly appointed commission members to approach their responsibilities with integrity, diligence, and a commitment to delivering real progress for the people of the region.
The revered monarch also called on stakeholders—including traditional rulers, state governments, and civil society groups—to support the SWDC in achieving its mandate of addressing infrastructure gaps, ecological issues, and security challenges across the South West.