Tinubu’s Appointment Of Akinola As SWDC’s MD Excites Olowo, Others

The Olowo of Owo kingdom, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye 11, has joined the growing list of prominent Yoruba traditional rulers and leaders excited by President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Dr Charles Akinola as the Managing Director of the South West Development Commission (SWDC).

Akinola, a seasoned public policy advisor and development strategist with over 30 years of experience in public service, international development, and strategic governance, specialising in agricultural development, sustainable economic growth, and policy implementation across Nigeria and West Africa, was appointed by President Tinubu on May 8th, 2025, as the pioneer MD of the SWDC.

In a chat with LEADERSHIP, Oba Ogunoye, described Dr Akinola’s appointment as putting a square peg in a square hole, saying he will facilitate social and economic development in the South West.

According to the foremost traditional ruler, Dr. Akinola’s training, political experience, and exposure would help him succeed on the job.

“The appointment of Dr Akinola, I believe, is in the right direction.

Dr Akinola is a square peg in a square hole. He’s eminently qualified, and going by his experiences over the years, his training and his political experiences, I believe it is gratifying that such a wonderful personality has been found worthy by President Tinubu for appointment as the MD of SWDC.

“Dr Akinola is a man of good character, of good learning, and out to work for the interest of the Yoruba people. Given this appointment, I believe he will be all out to serve the good people of Yoruba land. This is a call for service, and I know that he will give selfless service for the benefit of the people of Yoruba land. I know he will surely use his political connections for our benefit.