Governor Makinde Strengthens Administration with Appointment of Audit Commission Boss and Liaison Aide

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Mr. David Aderemi Okediji as the new Chairman of the Oyo State Audit Service Commission, signaling a renewed focus on fiscal transparency and accountability within the state's public service. In a simultaneous announcement, the Governor also named Mr. Olufemi Ebenezer Olanrewaju as his Special Assistant on Liaison Office (Lagos), a strategic role aimed at maintaining the state's robust diplomatic and commercial presence in Nigeria's economic capital. These appointments were made public on Tuesday through an official letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.

The confirmation of Mr. Okediji as the head of the Audit Service Commission is a significant administrative move, coming at a time when the state government is keen on reinforcing its internal control mechanisms. The commission is pivotal in ensuring that public funds are utilized efficiently and that all state ministries, departments, and agencies adhere to strict financial guidelines. By appointing a substantive chairman, the Governor is effectively empowering the body to carry out its statutory oversight functions without hindrance. The appointment takes retrospective effect from January 15, 2026, indicating the urgency attached to the role.

On the other hand, the appointment of Mr. Olufemi Ebenezer Olanrewaju as the Special Assistant on Liaison Office (Lagos) underscores the importance of the Lagos axis to the governance strategy of Oyo State. The Lagos liaison office serves as a critical bridge between the state government and the federal authorities, diplomatic missions, and the private sector headquarters located in Lagos. Mr. Olanrewaju’s role will involve coordinating inter-governmental relations and ensuring that the Governor’s interests are effectively represented in the commercial hub. His appointment takes effect from January 20, 2026.

In the letter conveying the appointments, Governor Makinde charged both officials to see their selection as a call to service. He urged them to discharge their duties with "commitment, loyalty, and dedication to the state," reminding them that their performance would directly impact the administration's ability to deliver on its promises to the people. The Governor’s emphasis on loyalty and dedication reflects his administration’s zero-tolerance policy for indolence and the high expectations placed on public officeholders to contribute meaningfully to the "Omituntun 2.0" agenda.

These latest appointments are part of a broader effort by the Makinde administration to fill critical vacancies and ensure that the machinery of government runs smoothly. By staffing the Audit Service Commission with leadership, the government is sending a signal to both local and international partners about its commitment to due process and good governance. Similarly, strengthening the Lagos liaison office suggests a proactive approach to external relations and investment drive.

As the new appointees assume their respective offices, they are expected to hit the ground running. Mr. Okediji faces the immediate task of reviewing the state’s audit protocols and clearing any backlogs of financial reports, while Mr. Olanrewaju will need to quickly establish his presence in Lagos to facilitate the state’s ongoing engagements. The public will be watching closely to see how these new hands contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Oyo State Government in the coming months.

The administration has continued to fine-tune its team as it navigates the second half of its tenure. With these strategic placements, Governor Makinde aims to consolidate his legacy of administrative competence and ensure that every arm of government, from financial oversight to external relations, is manned by capable individuals aligned with his vision for a prosperous Oyo State.