Organization looks to collaborate with Oyo state authorities on skills development initiative

The Institute of Leadership, Coaching and Strategy has embarked on a collaborative effort with the Oyo State Government, aiming to bolster institutional partnerships and elevate leadership standards in public administration, with discussions initiated on potential areas of cooperation.

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Dr Olasunkade Azeez, President and Chairman of the institute's Governing Council, led the engagement as part of a broader initiative to promote ethical leadership, governance efficiency, and professional development across key sectors of the Nigerian economy, according to a statement made available on Thursday.

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The visit focused on establishing cooperative frameworks to support capacity development initiatives, promote high ethical standards in leadership, and encourage the adoption of global best practices to improve public service delivery.

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The institute's delegation was received by the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, who was accompanied by senior government officials, including Prof Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, Commissioner for Establishments and Training, and Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission.

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Alhaji Taiwo Niran Mustapha, Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Office of the Head of Service, described the engagement as timely, noting that leadership, policy formulation, and strategic governance have historically played defining roles in shaping Nigeria's development trajectory.

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Mustapha referenced the contributions of prominent statesmen such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, and Chief Simeon Adebo, whose policy direction and administrative vision helped shape governance structures in the country.

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The meeting coincided with recent structural adjustments within the Oyo State Civil Service, particularly the transition of the Permanent Secretary's designation from Service Matters to Service Policy and Strategy, a change that reflects the government's renewed emphasis on strategic governance, institutional reforms, and improved service delivery.

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Dr Azeez thanked the Head of Service and her team for the warm reception, explaining that the purpose of the visit was to seek collaboration on capacity building and strategic support for mutual benefit.

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Azeez stated, "We are here to seek collaboration on capacity building and strategic support for mutual benefit," and invited the Head of Service and other key functionaries in the Oyo State Public and Civil Service to join the institute in its national assignment by leveraging its expertise to upskill officers for world-class service delivery in the state.

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The institute is committed to advancing leadership development beyond theoretical concepts to evidence-based value delivery capable of improving systems, processes, and outcomes for national development through good governance, according to Azeez.

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Azeez listed some benefits of membership of the institute, including networking opportunities at local and international levels, access to globally recognised certifications to enhance career advancement, and participation in high-profile professional programmes such as conferences, webinars, public lectures, and training initiatives.

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Azeez commended the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for what he described as reform-driven initiatives across key sectors in the state, stating, "We believe our values align with the Oyo State Government's transformative initiatives, and our objectives can be mutually beneficial if properly aligned."

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Mrs Oni noted that the visit reflects a shared commitment to leadership development and capacity building, stating that the Oyo State Civil Service remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and improved service delivery, with emphasis on leadership development anchored on character, vision, integrity, and accountability.

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Oni highlighted key reforms introduced since assuming office, including the implementation of performance management systems to enhance accountability and transparency, development of cadre-based training programmes to build leadership capacity, strengthening of policy frameworks to drive reforms and innovation, and promotion of a culture of excellence through recognition of outstanding performance.

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In appreciation of her leadership and contributions to the development of the state civil service, Oni was presented with a leadership award alongside other key functionaries.

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The president of the institute was accompanied on the visit by key officials, including Ifeoma Adeniyi, FILCS, Registrar and Chief Executive; Mrs Toyin Emeordi, South-West Regional Coordinator; Dr Morounfoluwa Oyebola, Vice-Chairman, Membership Experience Committee; and Mrs Olamide Olabiran, a Fellow of the institute.