Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Olohungbebe comes from a distinguished lineage. He is one of the sons of the late Sheikh Ibrahim Abdullahi Olohungbebe, a revered Islamic scholar who spent his lifetime spreading Islamic teachings and knowledge in Ota, Ogun State. Sheikh Olohungbebe was a prominent figure in the Tijaniyyah Order in Nigeria, known for his deep intellectual contributions and commitment to religious scholarship.
By Abdulrahman Aliagan. Abuja
In the annals of political appointments in Kwara State, few have resonated as profoundly with the public as the recent nomination of Dr. Lawal Olalekan Olohungbebe as the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development. His appointment by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been widely hailed as a masterstroke—an affirmation of competence, merit, and a clear understanding of the challenges of education and community development.
A scholar, an administrator, and a community development expert par excellence, Dr. Olohungbebe’s journey to this exalted position has been defined by a relentless commitment to service. His ascension is not a product of chance but a well-earned recognition of his years of unwavering dedication to the betterment of society.
Dr. Olohungbebe’s story is deeply intertwined with grassroots development. Before his latest appointment, he served as the Senior Special Assistant to Governor AbdulRazaq on Community Development, where he championed numerous people-centric initiatives across Kwara State. His tenure was characterized by a pragmatic approach to governance—one that prioritized the inclusion of rural and underserved communities in the state’s developmental agenda.
Prior to this, he held the prestigious position of Director of the Centre for Community Development at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete. Under his leadership, the institution became a beacon of community engagement, fostering strategic partnerships that bridged the gap between academia and societal transformation. His impact in this role was so profound that it became a training ground for students who saw in him a mentor, a motivator, and a leader with a clear vision for sustainable development.
Dr. Olohungbebe’s appointment as Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development is not only a reward for past achievements but a strategic decision by Governor AbdulRazaq to place a capable hand in a crucial sector. Education remains the bedrock of societal progress, and Kwara State, like many parts of Nigeria, requires innovative and practical solutions to bridge gaps in access, quality, and policy implementation.
The public’s excitement over his appointment stems from a strong belief that he is a round peg in a round hole. Having spent years shaping young minds and fostering academic excellence at KWASU, his transition to the education ministry feels like a natural progression—one that aligns with his life’s work and expertise.
However, with great power comes great responsibility. Dr. Olohungbebe is not expected to merely occupy an office; he must deliver on the high expectations of the people of Kwara State. Stakeholders in the education sector, from teachers to students and parents, will be watching closely to see how he translates his vast knowledge of community development into practical reforms in the education system.
Key areas that demand his immediate attention include: Many schools in Kwara lack basic infrastructure, adequate teaching materials, and well-trained educators. A comprehensive plan to revitalize these institutions will be crucial.
The quality of education is directly linked to the competence of teachers. Continuous professional development programs and welfare improvements will ensure a motivated teaching workforce.
In today’s rapidly changing world, education must go beyond theory to practical skill-building. A review of the curriculum to integrate vocational training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship will position Kwara students for global competitiveness.
Increased Stakeholder Engagement: Education is a collective responsibility. Strengthening collaborations with parents, school administrators, community leaders, and private-sector stakeholders will be vital in shaping policies that are inclusive and effective.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Olohungbebe comes from a distinguished lineage. He is one of the sons of the late Sheikh Ibrahim Abdullahi Olohungbebe, a revered Islamic scholar who spent his lifetime spreading Islamic teachings and knowledge in Ota, Ogun State. Sheikh Olohungbebe was a prominent figure in the Tijaniyyah Order in Nigeria, known for his deep intellectual contributions and commitment to religious scholarship.
This heritage of knowledge, discipline, and leadership undoubtedly shaped Dr. Olohungbebe’s approach to life and governance. His father’s legacy of selfless service to humanity now finds expression in his son’s dedication to community development and education.
Dr. Olohungbebe has proven time and again that he is not one to shy away from responsibility. His current role presents a golden opportunity for him to etch his name in history as one of the most impactful Commissioners for Education in Kwara State. If he succeeds, as many believe he will, this position may well serve as a stepping stone to even greater leadership roles—perhaps at the national level.
However, history has also shown that political appointments come with immense scrutiny. The people of Kwara will not hesitate to hold him accountable, and rightly so. He must not rest on his past laurels but strive to leave an indelible mark on the education sector. His tenure must be defined by tangible results—better schools, improved student performance, and policies that truly transform lives.
Dr. Olohungbebe is a shining example of what happens when competence meets opportunity. His appointment is a victory for meritocracy and a testament to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to placing the right people in the right positions.
Now, the onus is on him to prove that the public’s faith in his abilities is not misplaced. Kwara’s education sector is at a critical juncture, and the task ahead is enormous. But if anyone has the credentials, the experience, and the passion to deliver, it is Dr. Olohungbebe.
As he embarks on this new journey, the people of Kwara—and indeed the entire nation—will be watching. And, as always, history will judge his tenure not by the applause that greeted his appointment but by the legacy he leaves behind.
Aliagan, the Managing Editor, Time Nigeria Magazine, President of Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ), he is also a Public Relations practitioner, he writes from Abuja, Federal Capital Territory
