Wolekanle Named “Best Administrator of the Year” by NUJ for Transforming Oyo LG Service Commission

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (Oyo State Council) (NUJ) has bestowed the prestigious award of “Best Administrator of the Year” on Bashorun Akinwale Solomon Akinwole—also known as “Wolekanle”—Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission. The recognition is in appreciation of his leadership, inventive reforms, and the significant impact he has made since assuming office. 

A letter from the union, bearing signatures of NUJ Chairman Comrade Ademola Babalola, Planning Committee Chair Kemi Olaitan, and Secretary Omolola Alamu, conveyed the decision. According to the statement:

“The union deems it necessary to confer on you the NUJ Award of Best Administrator of the Year … given your remarkable achievements within a short time in office.”

Details of Chairman Akinwole’s reforms show a sweeping transformation of the Service Commission’s operations and service to local government staff across the 33 LGAs of Oyo State. Key achievements include:

• Clearing promotion backlogs affecting over 10,000 local government employees.

• Launching regular capacity-building and professional development programmes, including out-of-state training for staff at various levels.

• Conducting a comprehensive staff verification and welfare assessment tour across all local governments.

• Upgrading the Commission’s headquarters with modern technology — including CCTV for security, Wi-Fi connectivity, and an inter-com system to improve internal communication and productivity.

• Introducing a fast-track Staff Complaints Resolution Mechanism to ensure grievances are addressed promptly and transparently.

Observers say these reforms have significantly improved morale among local government workers and boosted the image of the Commission as a more efficient and people-friendly body. One long-serving staff member remarked: “For the first time, we feel seen, heard and equipped to do our job properly.”

The award is scheduled to be formally presented on October 17, 2025, during the grand finale of the NUJ Press Week titled “Pen Night,” which runs from October 12–17. The Press Week features a church service, opening ceremony chaired by Governor Seyi Makinde, an anniversary lecture, visits to motherless babies’ homes, a Family & Youth Day, and Jumat service. 

Chairman Akinwole expressed his gratitude to the NUJ and pledged to leverage the recognition as motivation to further enhance the welfare of local government staff and deepen sustainability in service delivery. He acknowledged the backing of Governor Makinde’s administration in giving the Commission the mandate and support needed for transformation.

In a state where public service and grassroots delivery often face criticism, the union’s decision signals a rewarding of performance, integrity, and systemic innovation — rather than mere tenure. With the accolade now secured, the expectation is that Akinwole and his team will maintain momentum, avoid complacency, and set a benchmark for public administration in the local government sector not just in Oyo State, but across the region.