As Ogun State looks toward the 2027 general elections, Honourable Dapo Okubadejo is emerging as a frontrunner for the Deputy Governorship seat.
The Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun has earned widespread recognition for his exceptional leadership, financial mastery, and steadfast commitment to the state’s growth.
By Olufemi Orioye
A Financial Maestro with Proven Results
Okubadejo’s public service career is anchored in a distinguished academic and professional background spanning global finance.
Before joining government in 2019, he rose from Arthur Andersen to become an Equity Partner at KPMG, serving as Head of Deal Advisory and Private Equity for West Africa and later Africa.
He holds a degree in Agriculture from Obafemi Awolowo University and a master’s in International Finance from the University of Glasgow.
Since taking charge of Ogun’s economic management team, he has transformed the state’s fiscal landscape. Under his stewardship, internally generated revenue (IGR) grew from N20 million annually to nearly N300 million.
The state’s annual budget expanded from N450 million to over N1 trillion within seven years.
This reduced reliance on federal allocations and gave Ogun greater flexibility to fund infrastructure, education, and health projects.
Driving Reform and Investment
Okubadejo oversees budgeting, revenue generation, and fiscal planning while designing economic reforms that attract investment and strengthen governance.
His work on the Ogun State Development Plan has positioned the state as one of Nigeria’s top economic hubs.
He has championed diversification beyond agriculture, pushing growth in manufacturing and technology.
Under his guidance, industrial and tech parks in the state have seen significant expansion, drawing local and international investors.
His policies prioritize local entrepreneurs and innovation, stimulating job creation and building economic resilience.
Colleagues describe him as strategic, transparent, and solutions-driven, with the ability to manage state finances even during periods of economic uncertainty.
*Leadership Rooted in the People*
Okubadejo’s governance philosophy centers on collaboration, inclusivity, and listening to citizens.
He has prioritized education, healthcare, and infrastructure while acting as a bridge between Ogun State and international partners to secure critical investments.
His focus on transparency has earned trust across government and the public.
*A Formidable Partnership for 2027*
With Senator Solomon Adeola tipped as the Ogun State APC gubernatorial candidate for 2027, political watchers point to the potential synergy between Adeola’s federal legislative experience and Okubadejo’s financial expertise.
Together, they offer a combination capable of accelerating infrastructure, job creation, and economic development.
Born in Ijebu Ode, Okubadejo is regarded in policy and business circles as one of the most prominent technocrats in the state’s administration.
His journey from global finance to public service reflects a blend of private-sector rigor and public-sector impact.
As 2027 approaches, Okubadejo’s track record positions him as an exceptional leader ready for greater responsibility.
His potential elevation to Deputy Governor is seen not just as recognition of service, but as a strategic step toward a more prosperous, self-reliant Ogun State.
