In the words of Emily Dickinson, "We turn not older with years, but newer every day," a sentiment that encapsulates the celebratory spirit surrounding Oladapo AbdulRahman Okubadejo as he commemorates another birthday on Saturday, February 28.
While birthdays are occasions for festivities, they also invite moments of introspection, gratitude, and stronger connections with loved ones. This year's celebration, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan, amplifies the reasons to express gratitude for life, faith, and blessings.
A distinguished son of Ogun State, Okubadejo, affectionately known as Dapo among friends, has emerged as a prominent figure in Nigeria's public service landscape. His deep-seated faith in Allah, exceptional intellect, and unblemished service record exemplify his commitment to governance and social change.
His academic journey commenced at Luba Comprehensive High School and Ijebu Muslim College in Ijebu-Ode, where he achieved six distinctions and one credit in the WAEC Ordinary Level examinations. He then attended the renowned Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned a Bachelor of Agriculture with an Upper Second Class Division in 1990. His pursuit of knowledge took him further to the University of Glasgow, where he obtained a Master of Finance (with Distinction) in International Finance in 2003 as a Chevening Scholar from the UK. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Development Finance at Babcock University in Nigeria.
With a notable 31-year professional journey, Okubadejo has left a significant mark on the global financial landscape. His career began at Arthur Andersen LLP, where he held various roles including Staff Accountant and Senior Manager from 1992 to 2002.
He later joined KPMG Professional Services, one of the world’s leading accounting firms, where he ascended rapidly. From 2003 to 2019, he served in multiple roles including Associate Director, Partner, and Head of Corporate Financial Advisory for West Africa. He also became a Partner and Africa Head for the Deal Advisory & Private Equity Group, in addition to being a member of the KPMG Policy Board before fully dedicating himself to public service in 2019.
Since July 2019, Okubadejo has diligently served Ogun State as the Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, and since December 2019, he has held dual responsibilities as the Commissioner for Finance. In this capacity, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives like the Economic Transformation Project and the Revenue Mobilisation & Harmonisation Committee, promoting fiscal discipline and sustainable economic reforms.
Over the years, he has offered expert guidance to governments, corporations, and organizations including the World Bank and African Finance Corporation. His significant contributions have garnered international accolades, including the Global Financial Advisor of the Year Award for Africa in both 2017 and 2018 by the Private Equity Africa Association in London.
Okubadejo is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCTI). His insights have also enriched global policy discussions at the World Economic Forum and other prestigious forums.
Despite his numerous awards and titles, Dapo remains a relatable figure—an advocate for change, a voice of conviction, and a proponent of excellence in public service. He gauges success not solely through individual achievements but by the positive impact he has on the lives of others.
As he observes this significant birthday, his friends, colleagues, and associates celebrate a life marked by service and dedication.
Happy birthday, Dapo. May your foresight, wisdom, and leadership continue to influence Ogun State and the economic landscape of Nigeria for many years ahead.
*Mr. Akinmade is the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Information and Strategy.
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