“Cultivating Change: The Remarkable Legacy of Dr. Adetunji Oredipe In Shaping Agricultural Transformation And Policy Development”
By: Tayo Mabeweje
Dedicated to the noble pursuit of agricultural economics, Dr. Adetunji A. Oredipe’s legacy stands as a beacon of transformation. Emerging from the Oke-Eri, Ijebu-Ode lineage, his destined trajectory in agriculture began at the College of Agriculture in Akure, shaping his early passion into formidable expertise. From there, he embarked on an academic odyssey that saw him honing his skills at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, then further refining his craft through master’s and Ph.D degrees in Agricultural Economics from the esteemed University of Ibadan and the University of Bradford, United Kingdom.
Dr. Oredipe’s pursuit of excellence transcended academia as he emerged as a visionary leader and practitioner. His pivotal role in agricultural development projects and consultancy services positioned him at the forefront of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. Notably, he steered the transformative Fadama Development projects, leaving an indelible mark as the National Coordinator of FADAMA II. Under his stewardship, this community-driven model empowered local stakeholders, cementing his reputation as a champion of collaborative development.
However, his contributions extended beyond the theoretical and the practical. Dr. Oredipe was a catalyst for tangible change, as evidenced by his roles as a Special Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture, notably to Akinwunmi Adesina. This partnership further solidified his reputation as a driving force behind agricultural policies and initiatives, garnering accolades such as the Award of Excellence and People First Award from esteemed institutions, including the World Bank.
Amidst these achievements, Dr. Adetunji A. Oredipe’s enduring legacy continues to resonate. His unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and deep-seated determination have indomitably impacted the lives of farmers, communities, and entire nations, a testament to his resounding influence on agricultural progress.
With his devoted wife, Mrs. Gbemisola Oredipe, standing alongside, their philanthropic endeavors have reached far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on Ogun state and the entirety of Nigeria.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Dr. Oredipe’s mantle of recognition earned him many awards, including the Vice Presidents Unit Award in 2017 for his work on projects aimed at the North-East Nigeria Recovery and Peace Building.
Dr. Oredipe’s impact transcends titles, but his various chieftaincy honours, including Otunba Atayese of Noforija Kingdom, Epe; Otunba Atunluse of Ago-shasha; Otunba Asoludero of Erunwon, Akile-Ijebu; Asiwaju of Ijari; Otunba Bobaselu of Iworo; Otunba Bobaselu of Ise Community, Ibeju, Lekki; Maiyederun Bobagunte, Akile Ijebu; Otunba Moyegeso of Ago-Iwoye; and Otunba Legan of Ijebuland, stand as a testament to his deep-rooted connection with various communities.
In sum, Dr. Oredipe’s journey paints a portrait of a seasoned technocrat, a scholarly trailblazer, an invaluable contributor to Nigeria’s growth, and a devout beacon of inspiration. Through it all, his steadfast faith has remained unwavering.
Dr. Adetunji Adeleke Oredipe is the Senior Agricultural Economist at the World Bank. He is presently leading World Bank agriculture engagement in Sierra Leone and ensuring that the Sierra-Leones agriculture portfolio delivers results and impact on the ground. In the last fourteen years, Asiwaju Oredipe has worked on the Nigeria and Liberia portfolio. where he has been leading agriculture sector dialogue, operations, and engagement to leverage partnerships for the World Bank.
tayomabeweje@gmail.com
