Twenty-eight years after leaving office as Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, OFR, on Wednesday paid a historic return visit to the Council Secretariat, where he commended the current administration for its remarkable infrastructural transformation and commitment to good governance.
Ambassador Isola was received by the Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Dr. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, alongside the Vice Chairman, Hon. Tayelolu Egbeyemi, Secretary to the Local Government, Engr. Mutiat Agbaje, members of the Executive and Legislative Arms, management staff, political appointees and career officers.
The visit, described as emotional and symbolic, marked Ambassador Isola’s first official return to the Council Secretariat since completing his tenure as Chairman nearly three decades ago.
During the visit, Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo conducted the former chairman on an inspection tour of completed and ongoing projects within the Council Secretariat, including renovated executive offices, the legislative wing, departmental offices and other infrastructure aimed at improving service delivery.
Addressing management and staff during an interactive session, the Council Chairman described Ambassador Isola’s visit as historic and inspiring, noting that his outstanding rise from grassroots leadership to international diplomacy remains a source of motivation for public office holders.
He expressed appreciation for Ambassador Isola’s continued guidance and support, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building on the legacies of past leaders through people-oriented projects under the OGOO Mantra, with emphasis on infrastructure, vocational empowerment, institutional reforms and human capital development.
Responding, Ambassador Isola said he was impressed by the level of transformation taking place within the Council, describing the projects executed by the present administration as evidence of visionary leadership, prudent management of resources and dedication to public service.
He stressed that leadership should be measured by the quality of legacies left behind, adding that continuity in governance remains essential for sustainable development.
The elder statesman urged career officers to remain committed, professional and loyal in the discharge of their duties, noting that effective governance depends largely on the dedication of the public service.
He also advised members of the Legislative Arm and political appointees to sustain cooperation with the Executive, saying unity and collaboration are critical to delivering meaningful development for the people.
Ambassador Isola further reminded the Council leadership that public office is a sacred trust requiring accountability, transparency and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
The visit ended with renewed commitments by both the former and current leadership to advancing the developmental aspirations of Abeokuta North Local Government, as stakeholders described the homecoming as a celebration of enduring leadership and progressive governance.
