As Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Tokunbo Talabi clocks 63, tributes have begun pouring in from across political, business, and civil society circles celebrating the life and impact of a man widely regarded as one of the engines powering Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.
Known for his tireless work ethic, keen attention to detail, and no-nonsense approach to governance, Talabi has earned the moniker “the workaholic SSG” among staffers at the Oke-Mosan Secretariat and beyond. Friends and colleagues say it is not unusual to receive emails from his office at odd hours — midnight, early mornings, and even on weekends.
A technocrat with over three decades of experience in corporate leadership, Talabi brought his background in finance and strategy into public service when he was appointed SSG in 2019. Under his watch, Ogun State’s executive operations have witnessed a stronger structure, improved policy execution, and greater synergy across ministries.
“Tokunbo Talabi is one of the unseen hands behind the stability and performance of this administration,” one senior aide told our correspondent. “He has a way of breaking complex issues into actionable plans, and he doesn’t rest until results are achieved.”
Born on June 17, 1961, Talabi began his career in the private sector, rising through the ranks in various corporate institutions before becoming a key player in the Nigerian tech and logistics ecosystem. His transition to government, while unexpected to some, has proven transformative. Beyond his administrative duties, he’s also been involved in driving reforms in digital governance, internal revenue generation, and public procurement transparency in Ogun State.
A loyal party man and trusted confidant of Governor Abiodun, Talabi is praised for his humility, discipline, and accessibility. Despite the demands of public office, he is said to personally attend to correspondence, often insisting on fact-checking briefs himself — a trait many describe as both impressive and exhausting to keep up with.
As he marks 63 years of life and impact, several government officials, political allies, and traditional rulers have sent goodwill messages praising his commitment to Ogun State’s progress.
“He’s the kind of public servant every state needs,” said one message from a civil society group. “Steadfast, innovative, and always ten steps ahead.”
While celebrations are expected to be low-key in line with his reserved personality, the day remains a moment for reflection on the contributions of a man who, in many ways, continues to shape the trajectory of governance in Ogun State.
Happy birthday, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi — the relentless engine behind the scenes
