Alaafin congratulates Tegbe on appointment as power minister, calls him ‘superlative technocrat’

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has described the newly appointed Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, as a “superlative technocrat” with exceptional expertise and managerial competence.

In a congratulatory statement issued on Sunday through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch said Tegbe combines high-level technical knowledge with strong leadership skills, enabling him to drive efficiency and innovation through data-driven decision-making.

Oba Owoade noted that the minister is “a round peg in a round hole,” emphasising his ability to operate beyond conventional political constraints to deliver measurable, long-term results based on facts, data and scientific analysis rather than ideology.

The monarch also highlighted Tegbe’s academic and professional credentials, describing him as “a 60-year-old first-class graduate of Civil Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University,” while also noting his affiliations with Lagos Business School, Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard Business School, and his fellowship with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

According to the Alaafin, Tegbe’s over three decades of experience in institutional transformation, sector reforms, strategy development and technology implementation make him a valuable asset to the nation.

“As a superlative technocrat, I am confident that the new minister will deploy his expertise to address complex challenges in both the public and private sectors, making objective decisions with minimal bias,” the monarch said.

He added that Tegbe is known for embracing innovation, leveraging technology for societal advancement, and maintaining high standards of transparency and accountability in financial management.

In his remarks, the Alaafin further described the minister’s appointment as a reflection of his dedication, integrity and visionary leadership, while praying for divine wisdom, courage and strength for the minister as he assumes office.