By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
Dr. Charles Akindiji Akinola, the newly appointed Managing Director of the Southwest Development Commission (SWDC), brings to the role a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to regional development and policy innovation. His extensive career spans more than three decades in public service, international development, and strategic governance. Below are key facts about the man now entrusted with steering the development vision of Nigeria’s Southwest region.
Dr. Akinola is a seasoned public policy advisor and development strategist with over 30 years of experience. His work has centered on agricultural development, sustainable economic growth, and policy implementation across Nigeria and West Africa. He is widely recognized for his strategic acumen and hands-on approach to governance and development.
An academic of distinction, Dr. Akinola holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension from the University of Ibadan. He also earned a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Harvard Kennedy School as an Edward S. Mason Fellow. In addition, he pursued studies at the University of Cambridge, Cranfield University, and MIT, deepening his expertise in cross-sector partnerships, enterprise development, and conflict resolution.
He has been a foundational figure in the conceptualization and establishment of both the DAWN Commission and the SWDC. As Chairman of the Technical Committee under the Southwest Governors’ Forum, he led the review of the SWDC Bill and helped build a strong regional consensus around shared development priorities. His efforts laid the groundwork for the Commission’s current structure and mandate.
His leadership credentials include serving as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State from 2018 to 2022, and later as Chief of Staff to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola (CON). He also functioned as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Marine and Blue Economy, giving him valuable experience at both state and federal levels.
Dr. Akinola has led several sustainable development initiatives across Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea. He worked closely with major oil and gas companies, including WAPco, to design and implement sustainable livelihood programs. His leadership contributed significantly to the establishment of Global Memoranda of Understanding (GMoUs) as a standard for community development in the Niger Delta.
He remains a globally respected voice on issues of governance and economic development. Dr. Akinola is a member of the Dean’s Council at Harvard Kennedy School and was a Fellow at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard. His thought leadership continues to influence policy reform and innovation on both regional and international fronts.
Beyond governance and policy, Dr. Akinola is a passionate advocate of Nigerian arts and culture. He collects works from notable indigenous artists, including Jimoh Buraimoh, Demas Nwoko, Tola Wewe, and Nike Okundaye, reflecting his commitment to preserving and promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
With his unique blend of academic excellence, administrative experience, and deep cultural appreciation, Dr. Akinola is poised to lead the SWDC into a transformative era of regional development.
Source: Westernpost
