Muri-Okunola redefining leadership in Nigeria, says Expert

Musa Daniel, a Public Relations expert, says public servant, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, has emerged as a shining example of what it means to serve with dedication, innovation, and integrity.

In an article, Daniel said over the course of two decades, Muri-Okunola had steadily risen through the ranks, building a reputation as a visionary leader, an astute administrator, and a technocrat whose work speaks volumes about his commitment to excellence.

“From his early days in legal practice to his current role as the Principal Secretary to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Muri-Okunola’s journey is a testament to his exceptional work ethic and his belief in the transformative power of public service,” he said

He said Hakeem Muri-Okunola who was born on January 7, 1972, in Lagos Island was destined to excel in any field he chose. He began his educational journey at the Nigerian Navy Secondary School in Lagos, a setting that instilled in him a sense of discipline and resilience.

The article reads: “He later pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Lagos State University, graduating in 1995. But he wasn’t content to stop there. Driven by his desire to make a global impact, Muri-Okunola earned a Master’s degree in International Business Law from Queen Mary & Westfield College, University of London, in 1999. These academic achievements provided him with the intellectual tools to navigate the complex worlds of law and public administration.

“From Law to Leadership: A Career of Excellence: Hakeem’s career began in the private sector as an Associate Solicitor with Adepetun, Caxton-Martins, and Agbor, where he honed his legal skills. He later became the Company Secretary and Legal Adviser at Ibile Holdings Limited, a Lagos State investment company.

“In 2001, Muri-Okunola transitioned into public service, a move that would define his professional legacy. His roles in government began under the mentorship of then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recognized his potential. Between 2003 and 2005, HMO served as the Personal Assistant to Tinubu, a position that allowed him to understand the intricacies of governance.

“His work ethic and keen problem-solving abilities soon earned him the role of Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Land Use and Allocation Committee, where he implemented critical reforms in land administration. In 2011, he was appointed Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Public Service, overseeing the Lands Bureau and later the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

“During his tenure, he introduced transformative initiatives like the Electronic Certificate of Occupancy and the Lagos State Child Protection Policy, which have had lasting impacts on governance and social development in the state.

“The Youngest Head of Service: In December 2018, Hakeem Muri-Okunola made history as the youngest person ever appointed as the Head of Service in Lagos State at just 46 years old. This milestone was not just a reflection of his qualifications but also of the trust reposed in him to modernize and reinvigorate the state’s civil service.

“As Head of Service, HMO focused on building a more efficient, transparent, and people-centered civil service. He introduced measures to enhance the welfare of public servants, foster professional development, and streamline bureaucratic processes. His tenure set a benchmark for leadership in public administration.

“The Presidential Call: Principal Secretary to the President: In September 2023, Muri-Okunola transitioned to the national stage, accepting the role of Principal Secretary to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This position places him at the heart of Nigeria’s executive arm of government, where he oversees the President’s schedule, facilitates communication between the Presidency and other arms of government, and ensures the efficient execution of presidential directives.”