Ogun at 50: Civil Service Veterans Are Custodians of Institutional Memory, Says Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries as invaluable custodians of institutional memory whose experience and insights have continued to guide generations of civil and public servants in the state.

The governor made the remark during the public presentation and launch of a book titled “Our Legacy, Our Pride” authored by the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of Ogun State (ARHSPS). The event was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, as part of activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary.

Represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun noted that the state’s socio-economic and infrastructural achievements between 2016 and 2026, particularly under the current administration, have been greatly supported by the civil and public service, which he described as the traditional engine room of governance.

He stated that Ogun State’s civil service is built on vision, professionalism, strong character, and selfless service, adding that the newly launched publication would serve as a significant contribution to preserving the state’s institutional history.

According to him, members of the ARHSPS have continued to play vital roles in the development of the service through policy guidance and strategic advisory roles, which have benefited successive administrations in the state.

Also speaking at the event, former Head of State and President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the occasion. He recalled that the foundation of the Ogun State Civil Service dates back to the era of Simeon Adebo, noting that the structure laid during that period has remained a strong pillar for the service over the years.

In his remarks, former Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the occasion, Chief Olusegun Osoba, said past leaders in the state placed great trust in the civil service because it represented discipline, resilience, commitment, and dedication.

Osoba described the period as a remarkable era in the state’s history and said he looked back on it with pride.

Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of ARHSPS, Engr. Adeniyi Abiola, described the 50th anniversary of Ogun State as a significant milestone. He explained that the book was designed to serve as a repository of information, memoirs, and historical records, as well as a research resource for evaluating the performance of public service across different administrations.

Similarly, a retired Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the Book Launch Sales Committee, Alhaji Nurudeen Oyedele, said the publication was primarily aimed at documenting the experiences and contributions of past public service leaders.

He noted that the book would serve as a valuable guide for serving and future civil servants, adding that the wealth of experience shared in the publication would help make governance and public administration more effective for those coming behind them.