Abiodun tasks political leaders, public servants on strategic foresight

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has called on political leaders and senior public servants to adopt strategic foresight in policymaking and governance to encourage sustainable development and equip the state to meet future challenges.

Abiodun, who was represented by the Head of Service, Olanrewaju Saka, made these remarks during the opening of a three-day Capacity Development Programme on Foresighting for Strategic Leaders at the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies (OSKASOGS) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Ago-Iwoye.

The governor emphasized that effective leadership should involve anticipating emerging trends, identifying opportunities, and assessing potential risks, rather than merely addressing immediate issues. He stated that strategic foresight would enable government officials to examine future scenarios and incorporate long-term considerations into policy formulation, budgeting, planning, and program implementation.

Abiodun noted that the initiative supports his administration’s vision of “Building Our Future Together,” which focuses on enhancing public service efficiency for better service delivery. He highlighted the importance of long-term planning to keep pace with Ogun State’s growing industrial base, strategic position along the Lagos-Ogun economic corridor, and increasing investment opportunities. He argued that this planning is crucial for ensuring that infrastructure, education, healthcare, housing, and employment align with the state’s development.

The governor encouraged participants to consider the skills that young people would need to stay competitive, the infrastructure necessary for sustaining industrial growth, and the actions the government must undertake to mitigate emerging risks.

Abiodun also expressed gratitude to NIPSS for providing the training at no cost to participants, urging them to apply the knowledge gained to enhance decision-making and strengthen public institutions.

In a goodwill message, former Head of Service Kehinde Onasanya praised Abiodun as a strong advocate for capacity-building initiatives. He remarked that the program continues to enhance participants’ knowledge, strengthen the civil service, foster teamwork, and improve the execution of government policies and programs.

Professor Adeyanju similarly commended the governor for providing public servants and policymakers the opportunity to bolster their strategic leadership skills. He urged participants to utilize the training to contribute to Ogun State’s growth and development, emphasizing the importance of equipping them with strategies to identify emerging trends, explore future scenarios, assess risks and opportunities, and integrate long-term thinking into government policies and development plans.

Read Full Article