By Basheer Luqman Olarewaju
Olohungbebe is doubtless one community development expert who does not believe that he must be seen and heard all the time in the public domain. He has been a quiet professional who would rather allow results to showcase the brand reputation of the teams he heads. Aside the several initiatives alluded to in this article, the convener of ‘Countryside Emerging Leaders Fellowship’ Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe who was in the University for Community Development (Kwara State University, Malete) serving as the Director of Centre for Community Development when he was appointed as the SSA on Community Development to Kwara State Governor, is instrumental in the transformation of community development department in the university.
Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe is an exemplary practitioner of community development, whose influence and leadership has transformed the field both locally and internationally. As a distinguished community development specialist, Dr. Olohungbebe has contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field of community development. His expertise and vision have been instrumental in the development of innovative and effective solutions to pressing community issues, and his work has had a profound impact on the lives of people from all walks of life.
As the newly appointed SSA on Community Development to the Kwara State Governor, Dr. Olohungbebe’s work will have even greater impact on the lives of people in the state. He will bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to bear on the challenges and opportunities facing the communities of Kwara State, and will work tirelessly to ensure that, in his capacity with the support of the government, majority of the citizens have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. May I say, Dr. Olohungbebe’s appointment is a testament to his dedication to the field of community development, and to the people of Kwara State.
Dr. Olohungbebe’s impressive academic credentials are matched by his deep experience in the field of community development. He has worked with a number of organizations both locally and internationally. He is a trained professional both locally and internationally. His diverse experience has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing communities, and he has a deep understanding of the role that government, civil society, and the private sector can play in addressing these challenges.
Just like the Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, put, “Dr. Olohungbebe comes to the job with rich professional trainings locally and internationally, including World Bank Environmental and Social Framework organised by the World Bank Group; Learning Theories-Adult Education Approach (University of Wurzburg, Germany); Facilitating Community Change (St. Francis Xavier University Canada); Project Management (Knowledge Train Institute, UK); Security, Peace and Conflict in International Relations (University of Wurzburg, Germany); Gender and Intersectionality; Community Participation in Social Development, Ogun State; Facilitating Community Through Institutional Engagement, Kwara State; and Issues in Community Development Practice in Nigeria, Kaduna”.
With such an extensive background in training and education, Dr. Olohungbebe is uniquely qualified to lead the effort to strengthen community development in Kwara State. His knowledge of the latest trends and best practices in the field, as well as his experience working with diverse organizations, will be invaluable in ensuring that the state’s approach to community development is both effective and sustainable. His ability to facilitate collaboration and consensus among stakeholders will be essential in making sure that the needs of the state’s communities are met.
Dr. Olohungbebe’s commitment to supporting youth and promoting development in rural communities is clear in his many achievements. Apart from helping young Kwarans facilitating grants for their businesses, through the Countryside Emerging Leaders Fellowship, he has made a significant impact on the lives of young people in rural areas, providing them with opportunities for advancement and personal growth. By offering scholarships to outstanding fellows, Dr. Olohungbebe has helped to ensure that these young people have the resources they need to reach their full potential.
Governor Abdulrazaq, we thank you for the appointment of Dr. Olohungbebe as SSA on Community Development. It is clear that you have chosen a highly qualified and dedicated individual for the role, and we are confident that he will make a significant impact on the communities of Kwara State. We pray for wisdom and guidance for Dr. Olohungbebe, Governor Abdulrazaq, and all those involved in the important work of community development. May your efforts bring lasting peace and prosperity to the people of Kwara State.
We also pray for unity, harmony, and understanding among the various communities in Kwara State. We believe that through the efforts of Dr. Olohungbebe and others, the state will become a model of peaceful coexistence and community empowerment. We are grateful for the opportunity to work together to build a brighter future for all the people of Kwara State. Together, we can achieve great things!
Basheer Luqman is a volunteer at Countryside Emerging Leaders Fellowship.