As part of recognition for his contributions to grassroots development and public service, the Chattered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria has honored Akeem Olatunji with the MCPA Award and officially inducted him as a Member, of the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria.
Olatunji, who is the immediate past Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo state and Chairmanship candidate of the party ahead of the coming local government election, was inducted alongside other selected notable individuals and fresh graduands who have been certified by the institute at a glamorous event held at the Assembly Hall of the Polytechnic of Ibadan today, November 3.
Popular Ibadan-based radio broadcaster with Fresh FM, Abiodun Adewole otherwise known as ‘Mr Double A’ also received the MCPA Award alongside other awardees in other categories.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute, Dr. Uche Okereke, who conducted the ceremony congratulated the awardees and charged them to be good ambassadors of the institute warning that the Institute reserves the right to withdraw the award certificates at any point any member was involved in behavior or activity capable of bringing disrepute to it.
While speaking with journalists shortly after the event, Olatunji accompanied by his Campaign Director-General, Architect Salam Azeez and Secretary to Oluyole Local Government, Azeez Babalola, and Chairman of Adelop Farms Ltd., Alhaji Abdullai Oyeniyi, expressed gratitude to the institute for bestowing upon him the honor.
He vowed to continue to commit himself to grassroots development and service to humanity particularly in Oyo state noting that his life was already patterned after that of the executive, Engr Seyi Makinde, whose service to helping others in need even before becoming the governor has made him a highly respected national figure.
Olatunji disclosed to journalists that Public office is always a call to service and the people whose mandates are being held in trust should always be at the center of every policy and decision of government at all levels maintaining that Governor Makinde has laid down exemplary leadership template for every politician in Oyo state PDP.
“I’m very grateful to this great institute for finding me worthy of this award and official induction. It is a thing of joy because what this means is that every little role we play in our capacities towards the overall development of our society is being noticed by the authorities.
“It will inspire me to aspire to do more for my people, particularly in Oluyole Local Government where I’m seeking their mandate to serve as the executive Chairman of the council in the coming 2024 local government election.
“The opportunities graciously given me by my leader and political mentor, Governor Seyi Makinde have strategically positioned me for recognition which is why I’m here today as a recipient of this prestigious award and honor.
“I will continue to try to be a better version of myself as I aspire to serve my people in my local government and to be a proud ambassador of this great and reputable institute,” Olatunji assured.
