The prestigious Independent Newspapers Governor of the Year (Tech Innovation) award for the year 2023 has been earned by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
Presented at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the award was accepted on behalf of the governor by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. The event was chaired by former Ogun State governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba.
Governor Abiodun’s emphasis on utilizing innovation and technology to advance the economy of Ogun State led to him receiving the Tech Innovation award. This commitment has seen Ogun State become the second-highest earner of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the nation. Additionally, his administration introduced a gas-powered public transport system by converting petrol/diesel buses to natural gas, a project that will soon extend to motorbikes and tricycles. Other notable initiatives include the establishment of the Ogun Tech Hub and the “Light Up Ogun State” project aimed at providing electricity to all corners of the state.
Employing technology to combat crime, Governor Abiodun recently commissioned a high-quality drone from the Inspector General of Police.
Aremo Osoba commended the event organizers, highlighting that the awards disregarded political affiliations, regions, and religions.
Other governors recognized at the event were Dr. Agbu Kefas of Taraba State as Governor of the Year (Education and Youth Employment), Governor Caleb Manssseh Mutfwang of Plateau State as Governor of the Year (Infrastructure Development), Pastor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State as Governor of the Year (Fiscal Discipline), Governor Inuwa Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State as Governor of the Year (Health), and Governor Biodun Oyebanji as Governor of the Year (Community Development).
Chief Olabode George and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards alongside others.