In the spirit of the new year, I happily and heartily welcome friends, loyalists, supporters, fellow political ideologues, and leaders across various spheres into the brand new 2025! It’s such an incredible privilege to be part of the global community witnessing the dawn of a new year, that I believe is filled with promise, hope, and endless possibilities for all of us.

For some, the new year represents a blank slate that is waiting to be filled with awesomeness of our colours and boldness. It’s a chance to start anew, to leave past regrets and mistakes behind, and to commence a fresh path forward. Others, however, may approach the new year with a sense of apprehension, fearing that the challenges of the past will continue to linger, or that new and unforeseen obstacles will arise. In addition, there are those who fall somewhere in between, who see the new year as an opportunity for growth and improvement, but also acknowledge the uncertainty and unpredictability that lies ahead. Not absolute unhealthy feelings for those in the middle I must say.

But my reflections on the past year filled me with gratitude for the warmth, joy, and meaningful conversations and feedbacks we’ve shared through this weekly column and various other platforms. I’m thrilled with the richness and passion that have characterised our discussions, all geared towards having a better Oyo State and Nigeria. Our collective aspiration for progress and excellence is indeed palpable, and I’m proud to be part of this journey with you.

The dawn of a new year inevitably brings with it, a mix of emotions – a sense of hope and renewal, tinged with a hint of trepidation and uncertainty. When the clock strikes midnight two days ago, marking the beginning of 2025, many of us can’t help but reflect on the year that’s passed. We think about the triumphs and tribulations, the moments of joy and the periods of struggle. And yet again, when we gaze out into the unknown expanse of the next 12 months, we can’t help but wonder – what does the future hold? A lot I say.

Even as we scheme around the complexities of our own thoughts and emotions, it’s worth remembering that the new year is, in many ways, a state of mind. It’s a chance to reframe our perspectives, to reassess our priorities, and to rebalance our lives. It’s an opportunity to let go of the things that no longer serve us, and to embrace new experiences, new relationships, and new challenges. And yet, it’s also important to acknowledge that the new year is not a magic solution, a panacea that will suddenly erase all our problems and worries. Rather, it’s a gradual process, a journey of growth and self-discovery that requires patience, persistence, and dedication.

The new year is a mystery, it is full of twists and turns that we can’t yet anticipate. But perhaps that’s what makes it so exciting – the possibility of surprise, the promise of discovery, and the potential for transformation. This new chapter is a revelation for us, it asks us to approach it with an open heart and mind, ready to face whatever challenges and opportunities that come our way. Ultimately, the date on the calendar do not define us, it is our own resilience, courage, and determination to make the most of the year ahead that does.

I’m convinced that there is more to explore, more conversations to engage in, and more progress to make. We must engage in real, sincere, and frank discussions that propel our polity, politics and policy forward, tackling fundamental issues and driving greatness to every home and individual. I believe we share a common vision for a more prosperous and fulfilling tomorrow, and I’m excited to explore deeper into these conversations with you.

Friends, please bask in the joy and festivities of the new year to the fullest. Let’s take time to cherish our loved ones, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. Let’s spread love, kindness, and warmth, and create contagious happiness that stays with us throughout the year.

I wish you all a Happy New Year 2025, filled with joy, blessings, and unparalleled success. We’ll continue our conversations soon, and I look forward to sharing my plans for Oyo State and how we can collectively turn our vision into reality.

~ Amofin Beulah Adeoye
January 3, 2025

As the dusk faded into a chilling night, a flicker of fluorescent street lights descend with magisterial mighty. In an instant, social and economic activities around the once dull and sleeping street suddenly burst into an energetic cacophony. No longer the darkened and dreaded place, this street, a beneficiary of the state government’s Light Up Oyo vision roared back to life with renewed gusto. In one breathless whisper, people spoke with wholehearted admiration and love, sharing not just their hope but TRUST in a government that has done so much in infrastructural strides than any of his predecessors.

While trust in the government and its institution often attributed to corruption and bureaucratic bottleneck, to deliver dividends of democracy is often viewed through the lens of skepticism and cynicism, these people, caught in the web of economic hardship and inflicted wounds stood in sharp contrast to career wailers who only see challenges instead of opportunities and problems rather than solutions.

Although, when it comes to finding skeptics, cynics and pessimists, overwhelming can be an understatement. It is when you try to find optimists in the beleaguered nation that you will realize the depth of our nation’s challenges. Plus, when people felt an iota of trust particularly from the least expected places and people, it sends ripple through the whole community. How the country turned from one of huge potential to its current stagflation is in part the absence of trust in the system. Consequently, this dangerous malaise has metastasized into the heart of the country’s facet of life.

In reference to the five dysfunctions of a team by Patrick Lencioni that was explored past two weeks, we’ve discussed in details the danger of absence of trust in building a team. We’ve also explored the personal and professional accomplishments of Amofin Beulah Adeoye in this regard. That he has not only build a team that delivers incredible result, but has equally sustained the same winning streak in other endeavours. We also spoke about his uncanny ability to build a team that can stand the test of time and stay focus regardless of the storm. As we read through the impactful book, Lencioni spoke about absence of conflict as a fact that leads team to dysfunctionality.

Conflict here means an expression of different thoughts over a charged conversation. To foster a team’s success, Lencioni enthused, team members must be free to speak their minds, counter a view that test their intelligence and be bold to offer clarity on contentious issues. Take election. Most electorates work tirelessly for the electoral success of their preferred candidates only to watch as the same passion that propelled their actions hit the wall as their choices settle into power.

Instead of trudging the tough path of stirring healthy conflict, one that will keep their leaders on toes, they sadly resigned to fate, leaving such leaders to act with impunity and behave like rascals. In other words, for a team, small or big to accomplish much, it must learn to stir conflict and resolve it amicably. Beautifully, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, the legal titan is vast in stirring the wheel of progress through intellectual dialogue while resolving conflict with proven outcomes. He knows that only in an atmosphere of trust will the light of personal and professional success be brightly illuminated. He has the character, capacity and competence to fix one of Oyo’s biggest intangible headaches: trust deficit. As a private citizen, he has built several trust bridges across communities and categories of people and as a politician, he is carving an amazing niche for himself as a man who says what he mean, and mean what he says.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospect and potential of Oyo state while projecting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, problem solver and creative, adaptive and innovative leader and thinker with compassion and empathy.

A member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State and president of Beulah Adeoye Foundation, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, has felicitated Nigerians, particularly indigenes and residents of pace setter state as the world celebrate new year, 2025.

Amofin Adeoye’s goodwill message was contained in a statement released to the pressmen in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

Amofin Adeoye expressed profound gratitude to God for the mercy and blessings bestowed upon every citizen since the beginning of the year 2024. He commended Nigerians for their unwavering steadfastness and perseverance in the face of hardship.

“As we step out of 2024 and welcome a new year (2025), I am filled with excitement, hope, and optimism for a brighter future,” Amofin Beulah said.

“2024 presented challenges, but it also afforded us opportunities for reflection, resilience, and growth. I commend you all for your steadfastness and perseverance and urge you to keep faith and remain committed to our collective pursuit of a better Oyo State and Nigeria.”

Amofin Adeoye, who extended his warmest felicitations to the esteemed leaders, stakeholders, and members of the PDP in Oyo State, also commended the leaders for their tireless efforts in promoting the ideals of the party and their selfless service to the people.

He further urged all and sundry to seize the opportunity of the season to reflect on their collective journey, harness their diversity and creativity, and build a nation that is just and equitable.

“As we celebrate this new beginning, I wish you all a joyous, peaceful, and fulfilling year ahead.

“May the coming year bring us closer to our dreams, strengthen our bonds, fill our hearts with love, kindness, and compassion.

“Happy New Year.”

In a heartwarming display of philanthropy and community spirit, Yusuf Kamorudeen, Personal Assistant ( Special Duties) to President Tinubu paid a courtesy visit to the Markaz Agege, where he was warmly received by the students and Mudirul Markaz, Sheik Habibullahi Adam El-Ilory OON.

During his visit, Kamorudeen announced a generous donation package to support the educational development of the students. He pledged to provide 40 scholarships to Diploma students and Undergraduate respectively, as well as books and Quran for the students and made a donation to support the school and the students.

Kamorudeen, who expressed his joy at returning to his alma mater, said, “This is where I grew up from, I’m happy to be here today and give back.” His gesture was met with applause and appreciation from the students and staff of the school.

The Agege Markaz school has a long history of providing quality Islamic education to students from far and near, and Kamorudeen’s donation is expected to have a significant impact on the school’s ability to provide resources and opportunities to its students.

Kamorudeen’s visit and donation serve as a shining example of the importance of giving back to one’s community and supporting the next generation of leaders.

Among others who are in the company of the president’s aide are, popular Ilorin-Born Islamic Cleric, Abdulraheem Abdullahi Salaty Popularly known as Albaarizy, Sheik Morufudeen Sulaimon, Alhaji Saheed Suberu, and Alhaji Dr. Sulaimon Lafeef, Alhaji Ayodeji Folorunso, Chief Habeeb Okunola, MON, OFR,(Akosin of Yourubaland), ACP Sefiu Bamidele Akande, Commander of Presidential Escort, among others

Again and again, I have found myself anchored in the conviction that people must be served well. I do not believe in anything else. A leader’s vision should sit comfortably with their constituents to engineer a sense of purpose and direction. This philosophy, which I have espoused in previous writings/series, remain a principle for me. At the centre of it, governance is about serving the people, and doing so in a manner that is responsible, accountable, inclusive, and fair. In addition, it’s about creating a system that prioritises the well-being of all citizens, regardless of their background, culture, or socio-economic status.

This understanding of governance, however, can vary greatly, especially in a country like Nigeria with different ethnic nationality. Different people, cultures, and regions may have their own reservations on what governance entails because of their experiences, perspectives and perceptions. Despite these differences, there are certain constants that define good governance. These non-negotiable include transparency, accountability, responsiveness, equity, and leadership with clear model and unambiguous ideology. They serve as the benchmark for effective leadership, to ensure that the needs of the people are always paramount. In some sections here, our governance structure and system has been a recurring challenge, and it’s essential to recognise and reorganise these constants, as well strive for a system that embodies them.

So, how do we actualise the dream of service and facilitate good governance? The answer lies in politics and active political participation. There is no shortcut or alternative route; engaging with the political process is the only way to drive meaningful change. This requires a robust and comprehensive understanding of the complexities of governance, a willingness to subscribe to battle the fine points of political ideology, and a commitment to serve the people.

Quintessential leaders are those who can align their personal philosophy and ideology with a political movement that shares their vision. They are guided by a clear sense of purpose and a conviction to truly be of service to the people. These leaders recognise that governance is not about personal aggrandizement or self-interest, but about mobilising interests and intellects to deliver on the promise of responsible governance. I have immense respect for leaders who embody this approach, and I believe it’s essential for building trust and credibility with their constituents. When I leaders are driven by a sense of purpose and commitment to the cause, they are more likely to make decisions that benefit the greater good.

Personally, I have been reflecting, consulting and looking more inward to the politics of Oyo state, the ideology that lace it and the state of things generally, and on this premise and understanding, earlier this week, on Monday, December 23, I took a fundamental decision and indeed a significant step by joining the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in my local government area of Itesiwaju, Oyo State. This decision has not been taken lightly, because I’m deeply committed to the values of good governance, transparency, and accountability that the PDP in Oyo State embodies. I couldn’t be more humbled to see such a welcoming reception and acceptance.

As I’ve always advocated, leadership is core and fundamental in the affairs of state. We can’t afford to sit on the sidelines or be fence-sitters; we must be actively engaged in the political process to drive real change. While philanthropic gestures are important and helping in a way or two, they’re limited in their impact compared to the power of political leadership. I firmly believe that the PDP is the ideal platform to drive my vision for Oyo State and build upon the existing legacies and beauties the state presently enjoy. I believe we can bring more good things around, make people see there is truly a future for our state, that we are on cause and we need a little more aggressive push.

I’ve been very fortunate to build a network of friends and loyal supporters across various political, social, religious, geopolitical and cultural divides. These individuals and groups share my passion for Oyo State’s development and trust my ability to deliver on our shared vision. You have listened to me, and fell in love with this vision. I want to urge you to remain committed to this cause even while you hold on to those divides, and as the road ahead becomes more challenging and tumultuous. Your support will be crucial in the decisions we will make together, and I trust that your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs will remain steadfast.

To all the believers of this cause and the good people of Oyo State, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your love, trust, and conviction in me. Your goodwill and support mean the world, and I don’t take them for granted. It’s almost another political dispensation again, and I want to acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. When next I will be addressing you on this series, it would be another year, 2025, and the coming year will undoubtedly test our resolves, but I have no doubt that we’ll emerge stronger and victorious. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance, and I look forward to engaging more with you (at different forums) on subjects of collective interests to our beloved Oyo State.

~ Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Friday, December 27, 2024

Love is essential to the human existence and experience. As a verb and as a noun, love belongs to those rare words that straddled between two parts of speech. As a noun, it is a name and as a verb, it is an action word. Neither static nor lame, love act as a unifier where division exists and help mend broken bones. To love a thing is to care deeply, and commit profoundly to its overall growth. Love helps heal the wound and can transform a bleak situation to one of limitless hope. Love is not a onetime choice. It is a process.

In fact, I believe it is a journey of a lifetime. “Love is the most important thing in our lives” as Diane Ackerman once enthused, “a passion for which we would fight or die, and yet we’re reluctant to linger over its names. Without a supple vocabulary, we can’t even talk or think about it directly”. Watch Amofin Beulah Adeoye speaks with unbridled passion and cheerful enthusiasm about Oyo State and you will see the wholeheartedly smile beaming on his face.

“Ten years ago, I started to study Oyo State, its prospect, potential and diversity”, he once remarked in one of his engagements with the influential young people in the state. For a decade, Amofin Beulah Adeoye has carefully dig into the state’s curves and contours, interacting with different categories of people while monitoring its various development with a closer gaze. Whether in the country or outside of it, he kept a close tab on the state, following development with passionate appeal. As a global citizen, Amofin Beulah knew for love to thrive and flourish, it must follow the trajectory of communication, commitment and trust.

While we discussed the five dysfunctions of trust using the work of Patrick Lencioni last week, today, we shall dig deeper into relationship between love and trust. Interestingly, we began our thrilling journey by examining trust and why invulnerability is antithetical to building it. We noted that trust is the foundation of a real teamwork. We added that experts like Lencioni posited that building trust where people only show their strengths while hiding their weaknesses is counter-intuitive.

This implies that people must be deliberate about embracing the gift of imperfections. “Great teams do not hold back with one another”, Lencioni argued “they are unafraid to air their dirty laundry. They admit their mistakes, their weaknesses, and their concerns without fear of reprisal”. In other words, unless team members play the vulnerability game, building trust will become a herculean task. And that starts with being damn open about everything and anything. For one, Amofin Beulah Adeoye is such an open-minded leader. He speaks his mind without fear. He interacts freely with others to gain valuable perspectives. He happily relates with people regardless of their social class.

To him, communication forms an integral part of his being. And commitment is one his core strengths. For the love of this state, Amofin has committed and dedicated his life to its development. This state has so much prospects and potentials. Only a leader like Amofin Beulah Adeoye has the key to unlocking the prospects and unleashing the giants within her potentials.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospect and potential of Oyo state while projecting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, problem solver and creative, adaptive and innovative leader and thinker with compassion and empathy.