Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has emphasised the need to reinforce the civil service in south-west Nigeria, describing it as a key driver of sustainable regional development.
The call was made on Saturday during the 10th Quarterly Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ARHOSPS), South-West, held in Osogbo, the state capital.
Governor Adeleke highlighted that a robust civil service forms the backbone of effective governance, efficient policy execution, and overall progress in the region.
He noted, “Across the world, development is anchored on strong policies, functional institutions, and disciplined implementation, all of which rely on a professional and committed civil service.”
According to the governor, the ARHOSPS meeting’s focus on civil service management and good governance was particularly timely, addressing the development challenges facing the south-west.
Adeleke said, “The South West cannot achieve its full potential without a civil service that is professional, ethical, innovative and people-centred. The civil service is the heart of every government, and its workers serve as the engine that makes government activities move in the direction of development.”
He urged the association’s members to continue offering their guidance on civil service matters, stressing that their experience remains invaluable even after retirement.
“Many of you gathered here today were central to building these foundations during your years in office. Your experiences shaped systems that continue to serve our people across the region,” he added.
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The Chairman of Osun ARHOSPS, A. F. Olatoye, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to advancing the civil service and fostering development in the south-west.
He explained that the association was created not only to support the welfare of its members but also to contribute to the growth and professionalisation of the civil service in Osun State.
“The Osun State Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries was established on 21st May 2009 to promote members’ welfare and advance the continuous growth and development of the Osun State civil service, which remains the primary constituency of all our members,“ Olatoye said.
He commended the state government for maintaining a cordial relationship with the association, highlighting that collaboration between serving and retired officers is essential for good governance and regional progress.
Governor Adeleke was represented at the meeting by the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye.
