Osun 2026: Oyetola Backs Oyebamiji, Cites Leadership Records

The minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, has thrown his weight behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate for the August 2026 off-cycle election in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, describing him as a leader with the competence, experience and vision to reposition the state for sustainable growth and development.

Oyetola, a former governor of the state stated this during an award ceremony organised by the Coalition of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (COMJON), where Oyebamiji was honoured as the Most Media-Friendly Chief Executive Officer in the maritime sector.

Represented by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola, the minister described Oyebamiji as a dependable partner and strategic thinker whose public service record reflects prudence and reform-driven leadership.

“Asiwaju Oyebamiji possesses the competence, experience and vision required to reposition Osun State on the path of sustainable growth, infrastructural development, economic revitalisation and social advancement.

“His reputation as a prudent manager of resources, a consensus builder and a development-oriented leader offers considerable assurance that he will bring renewed hope and effective governance to the state. Leadership is measured not by rhetoric but by tangible impact, and he has consistently translated vision into action,” he said.

The minister noted that Oyebamiji’s tenure as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) was marked by institutional reforms, revenue growth and enhanced regulatory oversight.

According to him, NIWA witnessed significant improvements in internally generated revenue through strategic reforms, improved operational efficiency and stronger stakeholder collaboration, boosting the Authority’s financial sustainability and operational reach.

Oyetola highlighted the development and implementation of the first Inland Waterways Safety Code in 35 years as one of Oyebamiji’s most enduring achievements.

He said the code introduced clear operational standards and compliance mechanisms that improved navigation safety and reduced operational risks across Nigeria’s waterways.

He also commended Oyebamiji’s role as chairman of the Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria, noting that the committee’s evidence-based recommendations and enforcement strategies contributed significantly to reducing boat accidents and strengthening safety awareness.

In his acceptance speech, Oyebamiji dedicated the award to Oyetola, describing him as a mentor whose guidance shaped his career trajectory.