Enimere Àkànbí
In the realm of public service, few individuals have made as significant an impact as Dr. Akin Fagbemi. His tenure as Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and later as Chairman, Oyo State Hospital Management Board(OYSHMB) has been marked by transformative changes and unwavering dedication to service delivery.
When Dr. Fagbemi took the helm at OYRTMA, the agency was moribund and lacked the capacity to effectively manage road traffic in the state. However, under his leadership, the agency was transformed into a reliable and service-driven organization. One of his earliest decisions was to change the kits of officers, which not only improved their visibility but also enhanced their professionalism.
Dr. Fagbemi’s commitment to professionalizing traffic management in Oyo State was evident in his collaboration with federal agencies to provide training for OYRTMA officers. This exposure to professional training equipped the officers with the necessary skills to effectively manage traffic and provide better services to the public.
To provide effective traffic control in the state, Dr. Fagbemi created over 60 zonal offices for OYRTMA. This strategic move brought the agency closer to the people and enabled it to provide timely services to motorists and pedestrians alike. The acquisition of motorbikes and an ambulance further enhanced the agency’s capacity to respond to emergencies.
Under Dr. Fagbemi’s leadership, OYRTMA underwent significant infrastructure development. He renovated some of the agency’s dilapidated buildings, providing a better working environment for staff. These achievements earned him recognition and admiration from the public, making him a household name among drivers in Oyo State.
Dr. Fagbemi’s appointment as Chairman, Oyo State Hospital Management Board(OYSHMB), marked a new chapter in his public service career. His experience in managing a critical public agency like OYRTMA proved invaluable in his new role. One of his earliest actions was to appeal to doctors and nurses to call off their industrial actions, which had negatively impacted healthcare delivery in the state.
Dr. Fagbemi supervised the re-opening of the Psychiatric Unit (RRSH) of Oyo State Hospital, Adeoyo, Ring Road, Ibadan which had been closed for years. This move expanded the hospital’s capacity to provide mental health services to the people. He also conducted promotional interview exercises for over 800 health workers, providing opportunities for career advancement and improved job satisfaction.
Dr. Fagbemi recommended the upgrading of Jericho Nursing Home to the 5th Semi-Autonomous Hospital, which would improve the quality of healthcare services provided to the people. He also installed solar-powered Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras at State Hospital, Oyo, enhancing security and surveillance.
After 30 years of non-accreditation, Dr. Fagbemi successfully supervised the accreditation of seven physiotherapy units for seven state hospitals. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare journey, ensuring that patients received quality physiotherapy services.
Dr. Fagbemi also supervised the change of uniforms for apex nurses and junior nurses, which improved their identification and professionalism. This move was part of his broader effort to enhance the quality of healthcare services in the state.
Dr. Fagbemi’s tenure was marked by collaboration with academic institutions, professional bodies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These partnerships aimed to provide sustainable healthcare delivery for the people of Oyo State. By working together with these stakeholders, Dr. Fagbemi was able to leverage their expertise and resources to improve healthcare outcomes.
Under Dr. Fagbemi’s leadership, the board supervised the recruitment of professionals and workers who were committed to providing affordable healthcare services to the people. This move expanded the state’s healthcare workforce, enabling it to provide better services to patients.
Dr. Fagbemi supervised the completion of an 18-bedded children’s ward at the State Hospital. This facility provided a much-needed service to children in the state, improving their access to quality healthcare.
Dr. Fagbemi’s journey from OYRTMA to healthcare institutions is a testament to his commitment to public service. His leadership and vision have transformed two critical sectors, improving the lives of countless individuals in Oyo State. As he moves forward, his legacy of service will continue to inspire others to make a positive impact in their communities.
Dr. Akin Fagbemi’s remarkable journey is a shining example of dedicated public service. His achievements in road safety and healthcare have had a lasting impact on Oyo State, improving the lives of its citizens.
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