THERE are several historical leaders who, when given a position of authority, were able to accomplish what many view as great strides. Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Queen Elizabeth I, Herbert Macaulay, Al-Haji Aminu Kano, Al-Haji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Professor Eyo Ita, Al-Haji Sir Ahmadu Bello, Alvan Ikoku, Dennis Osadebay, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Egbert Udo Udoma, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Joseph Tarka, General Murtala Mohammedand, Chief Remi Fani-Kayode, Anthony Eromosele Enahoro and so on.
Another wonderful and living example in this category is the immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Rahman Mimiko. His Abiye programme is considered as mother of all achievements whilst he held sway as the State Governor. Abiye initiative recorded so much success such that it is signposted as the model for tackling infant and maternal mortality in the developing world. This global acclaim is evident in the fact that the World Bank officially listed Ondo State Abiye programme on its website as one of the success stories coming out of Africa.
Latest in the fray of such quality and visionary leader who is still among us is our very own, Hon Joseph Iranola Akinlaja who presently represents Ondo East/West Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives. He was never and still not one of those who lived up to the infamy of tyranny, who used their influence to the advancement of their own desires, often to the detriment of others.
Nigerians will forever be grateful to the Chairman House Committee on Petroleum Resources Downstream, Hon Joseph Akinlaja specifically on the roles he is currently playing in the modification of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), at the House of Representatives, if eventually passed it will open up the oil and gas sector to new local and international Investors for competitive growth and development in line with international best practices.
PIB, which is being considered in phases by the National Assembly, is set to overhaul the entire industry governance framework to fiscals and regulatory form of the oil and gas sector. These are the positive results progressive thinkers get when competent hands are chosen to drive key sectors.
Retrospectively, Nigeria has benefited immensely from Hon Joseph Akinlaja’s knowledge, wealth of experience, political sagacity and leadership acumen. The remarkable impacts this Labour leader of note possess in the life of many individuals, corporate organisations and government agencies remain a reference point. There is no denying the fact that Hon. Akinlaja is a rare breed politician, patriot and a true democrat.
Akinlaja’s feats are bold and exceptional; from business to governance and politics. As a scribe to the most powerful union in Nigeria, National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, he made positive reforms that till date, his successors are still building on and making NUPENG proud. His years of quality experience in the petroleum industry sector which cut across upstream, middlestream and downstream made him a key phenomenon in conflict resolution both in Nigeria and outside the country. The reticent but cerebral politician distinguishes himself as a professional with selfless focus, instinctive humanitarian mission and virtues.
In politics, he has been a formidable force in Ondo State, who once participated to put together a great political movement that won power in almost all the elective positions in the state including that of number seat, this development obviously made Labour Party in Nigeria’s political firmament as a third force to reckon with. Akinlaja proved to be a true hero of democracy, not just in Ondo State, he is a light that cannot be concealed under any guise. Facts cannot also be suppressed that Hon. Akinlaja is a highly influential individual who, due to his personal charisma, doggedness, intelligence, wisdom, utilized his prowess in a way that had a decisive historical impact.
As a representative of Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, Hon Joseph Akinlaja sees human capital development as necessary and of key priority for his constituents. He is known to be unrepentant in fulfilling his campaign promises since his inception to the National Assembly. He operates an open door policy, treats people with respect and dignity, irrespective of their class, position, political affiliation or status in the society.
Akinlaja’s timely, dispassionate and consistent socio-economic empowerment programmes for his people across units and wards are reflections of true democratic philosophy. Besides, his quality representation at the hallowed chamber through popular bills, petitions, motions, meritorious oversight functions among others clearly show he is an epitome of good governance. Suffice not to renege in praying for him vociferously, because he is truly a patriot among us with vision and zeal.
