Former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), Dr Tunde Lemo has called for a change of power dynamics in Ogun State capable of making governance driven by people-centred policies with impactful leadership reflecting directly in the well-being of residents in the Gateway State.
Lemo made this known in his New Year Goodwill Message ahead of the February celebrations commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the creation of Ogun State.
Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976.
This is just as the erudite banker hailed the President Bola Tinubu Administration for introducing fiscal financial reforms that have stabilized the economy, helping to restore investor confidence and have made inflation to trend downward.
Although Lemo acknowledged concerns surrounding the new tax policy, he nonetheless stated that the reforms were designed to protect low income learners while ensuring that higher income groups contribute more equitably to national and sub-national development.
Ahead of the 50th Anniversary of Ogun State, Lemo highlighted the state’s vast economic potential, noting its growing industrial base, concentration of tertiary institutions, and abundance of natural resources.
The erstwhile Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank Plc, stressed that future leadership must be “entrusted to capable, competent, and experienced hands,” warning against patronage and narrow interests in the selection of the state’s next leaders.
On security, Lemo noted that the safety of lives and property remains a concern across the South-West, despite the efforts of security agencies and regional initiatives such as the Amotekun Corps.
He commended recent counter-terrorism measures, citing the prevention of a potential security threat along the Ogun–Lagos corridor as evidence of improved coordination among security agencies.
Lemo said the Golden Jubilee milestone provides an opportunity for reflection and strategic repositioning of the State.
He described the state as an emerging economic corridor in the South-West, underpinned by industrial clusters, logistics advantages, and proximity to Lagos.
“Ogun State is home to 22 universities, the highest concentration in Nigeria, one of the fastest-growing industrial clusters in Africa, and significant natural resources such as limestone and bitumen,” he said, adding that these assets must be managed prudently to deliver inclusive growth.
While paying tribute to past and present leaders, Lemo said the next phase of Ogun State’s development must prioritise competence, accountability, and service delivery to unlock long-term economic benefits for citizens.
He enjoined residents to see development as a shared responsibility, noting that government action alone would not be sufficient to achieve sustainable progress.
He concluded: “With unity of purpose, patience, and commitment, Ogun State can move into a more prosperous future,”
