Group honours Ondo Water Resources Commissioner with Icon of Excellence Award
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Yoruba Study Group (YSG) has honoured Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources and Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon Ayodele Akande, FCA, with its Icon of Excellence, “Distinguished Democrat” of the year 2026 award, citing his record of public service, administrative integrity and commitment to democratic principles.
The group said Akande’s approach to public administration, financial prudence and grassroots development demonstrated how ethical leadership could strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.
The award was presented to Akande at his office at the Ondo State Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene in Alagbaka, Akure, in recognition of his contributions to public service and democratic engagement.
The presentation was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Princess Victoria Opeyemi Adetoye; the General Manager of the Ondo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Engr. Rotimi Oladimeji; and other officials.
Speaking during the presentation, the leader of the YSG, Comrade Williams Adeosun, said the award was designed to celebrate public office holders whose conduct reflected transparency, accountability, institutional discipline and commitment to community development.
He described Akande as a symbol of political maturity and responsible leadership, noting that his professional background as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria had informed his approach to public administration.
According to Adeosun, Akande embodies the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos, which places a premium on integrity, diligence, responsibility and selfless service.
He said: “Hon. Akande, FCA, embodies the core Yoruba values of Omoluabi—integrity, diligence and selfless dedication to the people. At a time when public faith in democratic institutions requires renewal, his consistent adherence to ethical leadership serves as an inspiring benchmark for current and aspiring public servants.”
The YSG leader said Akande’s ability to apply his professional expertise to public service underscored the importance of financial discipline and ethical standards in the management of public resources.
The group also acknowledged his record of grassroots engagement and community-focused advocacy, particularly during his tenure as Executive Chairman of Akoko North-West Local Government Area.
Adeosun said Akande’s public service experience demonstrated that democratic governance should extend beyond political participation to include accountability, responsible administration and tangible contributions to the welfare of the people.
He added that the recognition was intended to encourage public officials to embrace indigenous values that promote trust, fairness and responsible leadership.
In his response, Akande expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the Yoruba Study Group for finding him worthy of the honour.
He dedicated the award to the workforce of the Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, as well as grassroots advocates working to promote good governance.
The award recipient reaffirmed his commitment to ethical leadership, democratic development and socio-economic progress, saying the recognition would further encourage him to contribute to the advancement of the state.
