The Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Dr. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, has dedicated his Distinguished Public Service Award in Grassroots Development to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), describing their support, leadership and commitment to development as instrumental to the achievements recorded by his administration.
Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo received the prestigious award at the Nigeria Public Service Lecture Series and Awards held in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 United Nations Public Service Day.
The award, organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) under the Presidency, recognises public officials whose leadership, innovation and dedication to service have made significant impacts at the grassroots and contributed to national development.
The Abeokuta North Council Chairman emerged as Ogun State’s sole recipient and one of only four Local Government Chairmen selected nationwide, alongside counterparts from Ondo, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo said the honour was not a personal achievement but a reflection of the collective efforts of the people, workforce and leadership that have continued to support the developmental vision of his administration.
“This recognition is a reflection of the enabling environment provided by Governor Dapo Abiodun, whose administration continues to encourage excellence in public service,” he said.
He noted that Governor Abiodun’s commitment to good governance, infrastructural development and effective service delivery has created the atmosphere for local governments across the state to thrive and deliver meaningful projects to the people.
The council boss also commended Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, for his unwavering support for grassroots development and his numerous interventions aimed at improving the welfare of residents across Ogun State.
According to him, the senator’s developmental initiatives and people-centred programmes have complemented government efforts and contributed significantly to the growth and transformation being witnessed in many communities.
Oyegbola-Sodipo further dedicated the award to the people of Abeokuta North Local Government and members of the council workforce, acknowledging their cooperation, commitment and support in the implementation of policies and programmes designed to improve the lives of residents.
Representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim Kana, congratulated the award recipients and emphasised that the honour was based strictly on merit.
“You did not receive this award by chance. You were carefully monitored, evaluated and found worthy of national recognition. Your achievements have made the Federal Government proud,” Kana stated.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Ibrahim Arabi, described the award as a celebration of selfless service, visionary leadership and measurable impact on society.
“This year’s celebration is not only about recognising the best, but also about honouring those who have made meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation at large,” Arabi said.
The Nigeria Public Service Lecture Series and Awards is one of the Federal Government’s flagship platforms for recognising outstanding public servants and institutions whose efforts continue to strengthen governance and service delivery across the country.
For many observers, the recognition of Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo further underscores Abeokuta North Local Government’s growing reputation as a model of grassroots governance and people-oriented development in Ogun State.
For the award recipient, however, the honour represents more than personal recognition. It is a national endorsement of a leadership style rooted in service, accountability, community development and the pursuit of sustainable impact at the grassroots.
