The Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has celebrated the out-going Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya on the launch of his autobiography, titled, ‘When God Favours’ which he said is a profound chronicle of grace meeting grit.
Penpushing reports that Abiodun gave the commendation in his speech at the ceremony held at June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta on Wednesday, stressing that Onasanya is a personality of destiny shaped by discipline.
The Governor added that the author is a man whose life reflects the boundless possibilities that emerge when dedication aligns with divine orchestration, describing him as an exceptional public servant, a master communicator, and a reformer whose story will echo far beyond this moment.
‘’There are moments in the life of a people when words transcend ink, when stories rise above the pages that contain them, and when a single narrative becomes a mirror through which we behold the beauty of purpose, perseverance, and divine favour’, he stated.
‘Today is one of such rare and stirring moments as we are gathered to unveil not just a book, but a legacy thoughtfully written, a journey courageously lived, and a testimony divinely inspired’.
Penpushing further reports that Abiodun pointed out that the book captures the essence of a life well lived, and historic because it preserves for generations the remarkable footprints of a thoroughbred Journalist, administrator, and reformer.
‘We celebrate you, Mr. Onasanya, for gifting us this timeless narrative—one that will continue to inspire, instruct, and illuminate the path of service and leadership for many years to come’, he emphasised.
‘Onasanya is one that speaks eloquently to the power of consistency and character. From his humble beginnings as an Information Officer, Grade Level 08 in 1992 to his elevation as the 20th Head of Service of Ogun State in 2024, his journey stands as a testament to integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service. It is a journey that reminds us that greatness is not accidental—it is the product of discipline, vision, and faith’.
Penpushing also reports that Abiodun disclosed that he had the rare privilege of working closely with Onasanya in his capacity as Head of Service, stressing that he (Abiodun can confidently say that his tenure as the Head of Service was marked by uncommon dedication and strategic alignment with his administration’s vision.
‘He keyed seamlessly into our administration agenda for workers’ development, championing capacity-building programmes that enhanced productivity and professionalism across the service’.
‘His commitment to workers’ welfare, coupled with his ability to foster harmony with labour leaders, ensured enduring peace, discipline, and stability within the Ogun State Public Service’, Abiodun added.
‘Prior to his appointment as Head of Service, Mr. Onasanya served meritoriously as Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Political Affairs and Administration, in the Office of the Governor. In that role, he distinguished himself through his handling of high-profile state assignments, including the Independence Day Celebrations, June 12 Commemorations, and the annual Carol Service. Working collaboratively with the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, he ensured that these events were executed with precision and excellence’.
‘Beyond ceremonial functions, he demonstrated remarkable administrative ingenuity. He coordinated study tours for prestigious institutions such as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies and the National War College, ensuring that Ogun State remained a worthy host to critical national engagements.
‘His intervention in refurbishing grounded government vehicles and upgrading the mechanical workshop significantly improved operational efficiency within government logistics. These were not mere tasks—they were deliberate efforts to restore functionality and dignity to public service infrastructure’.
Penpushing reports that Abiodun added that ‘as Head of Service, his impact became even more profound, stating that service delivery across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies witnessed a remarkable transformation through the introduction and publication of Service Charters.
‘In collaboration with the State Government, His Office revived The Bureaucrat Magazine; creating a platform for intellectual engagement and institutional memory. His leadership style encouraged innovation, collaboration, and continuous professional development, thereby repositioning the Ogun State Civil Service as a model of excellence’.
‘Under his watch, we witnessed the modernization of the Public Service Rules and Financial Regulations—an initiative that aligned our systems with global best practices. This reform, building on the foundation laid by his predecessor, has left our civil service more efficient, transparent, and future-ready. Indeed, his tenure was one of legacy, impact, and enduring institutional transformation’.
‘In collaboration with the Office of the Head of Service, our Administration has recorded significant milestones between April 2024 and May 2026. These include the sponsorship of international study tours to benchmark global best practices, the regular appointment of competent Permanent Secretaries, and the implementation of rigorous executive training programmes for accounting officers’.
‘We also facilitated strategic leadership courses at the Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies, strengthened workers’ welfare through the provision of CNG buses, and conducted promotion exercises consistently’.
‘The launch of the Public Sector Health Insurance Scheme has expanded access to quality healthcare for workers and their families, while the elongation of primary school teachers’ career progression underscores our commitment to the education sector’.
‘Our Administration implemented a new minimum wage of ₦77,396.24, improved leave bonuses, and introduced targeted palliatives such as subsidized rice distribution’, Abiodun added.
‘We integrated civil servants into agricultural loan schemes, supported transportation allowances, and ensured continuous training through partnerships with professional bodies such as CIPM, ICAN, ANAN, and COREN’.
‘For us as an Administration, we appreciate the fact that all these initiatives and programms were successfully carried out because the Office of Head was coordinating and supervising the successful implementation of the policies’.
‘Furthermore, our Administration; under the supervision of the Office of Head of Service strengthened pension administration, ensuring the payment of billions in gratuities and pensions, clearing backlogs, and introducing innovative frameworks such as the Contributory Pension Scheme and Additional Pension Benefits. These achievements reflect a government that values its workforce and recognizes that a motivated civil service is the backbone of sustainable development’.
Penpushing further reports that Abiodun pointed out that, Onasanya as a member of the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, he distinguished himself as a prolific writer and thought leader.
‘His published works in reputable national dailies and journals speak to his depth of knowledge and commitment to national discourse. His brief but impactful tenure as Editor-in-Chief of Ogun Update further attests to his versatility’.
‘Notably, under our Administration, we approved the redesignation of Information Officers as Information/Public Relations Officers—an initiative that broadened their professional scope and enhanced strategic communication within government. This reform aligns with Mr. Onasanya’s professional background and underscores our commitment to strengthening institutional communication’.
Penpushing reports that he stated that he (Abiodun) is a beneficiary of his tireless stewardship, stressing that for years, he (Onasanya) stood at the engine room of Ogun State’s bureaucracy with quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and an unblemished record of service.
The Governor added that Onasanya has managed transitions, upheld due process, and ensured that government remained responsive to the people even in challenging times, adding that his tenure is proof that when a public servant chooses excellence over expediency, the entire state advances.
‘As you step into retirement, know that you are leaving behind a civil service more disciplined, more professional, and more respected because of your leadership. You have demonstrated that when diligence meets divine favour, the result is extraordinary impact’
Penpushing further reports that Abiodun expressed optimism that the book will undoubtedly inspire generations to come, serving as both a guide and a motivation for those who dare to dream and serve.
‘Ogun State owes you a debt of gratitude, and this biography will forever stand as testimony to your meritorious service. Let me reiterate that today’s gathering is indeed worthy—it is a celebration of excellence, a tribute to service, and a reaffirmation of our collective belief in the power of dedication and faith.
‘May the legacy of Mr. Onasanya continue to shine brightly, and may Ogun State continue to produce men and women of such exceptional character. I congratulate you, sir, on this defining milestone, and I wish you continued fulfilment in all your future endeavours’, he stressed.
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