By Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez
When you trace the story of Ibadan sons and daughters who have risen to global heights, one name echoes with quiet dignity, resilience and resounding impact: The Executive Adviser on International Development Cooperation and Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande to His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde FNSE Dsc GSSRS.
His journey is not just a personal odyssey but a powerful narrative of service, resilience, and leadership. From the classrooms of Ibadan to the boardrooms of Africa’s most reputable Agricultural research institution, his path has been filled with firsts, record-breaking milestones that reflect the excellence of Ibadan’s heritage.
Breaking Grounds at IITA
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has been a global hub of Agricultural research for decades. Yet, it was within this space that Dr. Debo Akande wrote history:
He became the first recruited specialist in Agribusiness at IITA.
He shattered glass ceilings as the first Nigeria professional to rise to the highest senior ranks in IITA’s history and in that position , he leads over 17 countries.
To crown it all, he holds the unique pride of being the only and first son of the soil “Omo Ibadan” to have ever attained such a height in the institute’s history.
Even beyond Nigeria, his impact spread wide. In DR Congo, he led IITA’s work, bridging science and service for the benefit of communities across Central Africa.
Rooted in Service, Inspired by Legacy
In an exclusive reflection, Dr. Akande speaks not about the accolades, but about the essence of his life’s work:
“My primary reason for working with the Oyo State Government, under the dexterous and hardworking leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, DSc, GSSRS, is simply to serve — to serve the good people of Oyo State, Nigeria, and humanity at large.”
Service, to him, is not a career choice — it is a family tradition. His father was the first President of the Farmers congress of Oyo State, a voice for those who tilled the soil to feed the Nation. His uncle, President of Pensioner Association of Nigeria, Oyo State, was a fighter for justice and welfare. “My family,” he often recalls with pride, “has always been a home of service for humanity.”
Little wonder then, that his own steps have followed the same rhythm. For him, service is not seasonal, it is eternal.
The Power of Inspiration
Like every great leader, Dr. Akande himself draws strength from giants before him. Among his greatest sources of inspiration is the late Chief Bode Akindele, the Parakoyi of Ibadanland, a man whose philanthropy and enterprise opened doors for countless Nigerians. “Chief Bode Akindele,” he says, “emerged as the first and main inspiration for me as a person in service to our fatherland.”
Beyond the Titles: A Man of Humanity
Titles, positions, and accolades tell only half the story. Those who encounter Dr. Debo Akande often testify to his humility, accessibility, and genuine concern for people. His belief is simple: positions are only useful if they serve the masses.
From the corridors of IITA to the heart of governance in Oyo State, his guiding principle remains unchanged, service to humanity, always and everywhere.
A Legacy in the Making
For Ibadan, Dr. Debo Akande’s rise is more than a personal achievement, it is a collective victory. His story symbolizes the possibilities that lie within the city’s rich soil and resilient people. It tells every young Ibadan boy and girl that firsts are achievable, barriers can be broken, and history can be rewritten.
Dr. Debo Akande’s journey is a proud chapter. It tells the story of a son who not only dreamed but also achieved — rewriting history while keeping his roots firmly in service.
And as the journey continues, one truth remains constant: Dr. Debo Akande is not just a man of firsts. He is a man of lasting impact, one whose story will continue to inspire generations yet unborn as His life is a reminder that Ibadan produces not just leaders, but pioneers.
Written/Reporting By:
Yours In Service ✍️
Egalitarian Dig. Com. Digital Communicator Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez codenamed IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE
Policy Advocate | Public Affairs Analyst Convener, Emerging Force Platform | Head Youth Media Campaign for GSM Re-election Bid 2023 | He4She Crusader | Loyalist of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, FNSE, DSc, GSSRS.
