From Ibadan's Grassroots to Oyo's Education Frontline: Adeniran's Journey of Loyalty, Legacy and Leadership -

Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran is one of those public servants whose story cannot be told without first mentioning the deep roots that shaped him. In Oyo State, particularly in Ibadan political circles, his name evokes the image of loyalty, structure, and a lifelong devotion to public service. For many who have watched his journey over the years, Adeniran is not just a government official; he is a product of history, experience, and an enduring passion for the progress of his people.

His background begins from a familiar foundation, home training, political exposure, and community influence. He is the son of an nonagenarian, Pa Rasaq Adeniran, a respected politician of his time who served as a member, Old Oyo state House of Assembly, during the administration of late Governor Omololu Olunloyo, when grassroots politics was truly about service and community presence.

Baba Rasaq Adeniran belonged to a generation of politicians whose voices mattered in Ibadan, and his contemporaries included notable figures such as Alh. Ganiyu Ajimobi, father of former Governor Abiola Ajimobi; Alh. Oladejo Arapaja, father of former Deputy Governor Amb. Taofeek Arapaja; late Kunle Abass, a former Commissioner in Chief Bola Ige’s cabinet; Lawyer Tunji Oyesina, former member of old Oyo state house of Assembly, and the late strongman of Ibadan politics, Baba Lamidi Adedibu. They were all Councillorship contestants in 1976, during the famous 1976 local government reforms.

That lineage alone placed Dr. Adeniran on a path where politics and public leadership were never strange territories. Growing up around the atmosphere of community mobilisation and political discussions, he developed early the understanding that leadership is not just about titles, but about influence and impact. Those who knew his father often say the same spirit of commitment to people’s welfare can be found in him today.

Beyond family history, there is also the unmistakable stamp of Ibadan on his identity. Ibadan men are known for being bold, intellectually driven, and politically conscious. It is a city that produces leaders with strong voices and stronger convictions. For Dr. Adeniran, the “Ibadan-blood” running through his veins has clearly positioned him as a man who understands the streets, respects tradition, and still thinks in the direction of progress.

This blend of heritage and personal discipline helped him carve a successful path in his chosen career. He did not merely rely on political connections; he pursued education, built competence, and established himself in professional circles long before his name became widely associated with key political roles. That is why many describe him as a man who combines grassroots political understanding with intellectual prowess.

Professionally, Dr. Adeniran stands tall as a lecturer, a lawyer, and an educationist. His journey through academics and the legal profession reflects a mind trained for analysis, structure, and fairness. These qualities have continued to define his public service, particularly in a sector like education where planning and consistency matter more than mere political promises.

As a lecturer, he contributed to shaping minds and building young talents, reinforcing his passion for learning and development. As a lawyer, he developed a strong appreciation for justice, due process, and the importance of institutions. And as an educationist, he has consistently carried the belief that no society can rise above the quality of its educational foundation.

His political leadership journey also includes a significant chapter that many in Ibadan still remember with pride. Dr. Adeniran served as the Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government Area during the administration of the late Governor Lam Adesina. That era remains a notable period in Oyo State politics, remembered for its governance style and emphasis on grassroots administration.

During his time as chairman, he distinguished himself through visible projects and administrative discipline. Some of his legacies, according to residents and political observers, are still evident within the local government till today. For those who lived through that period, his leadership was marked by accessibility and practical governance; qualities that earned him respect beyond partisan boundaries.

Even after leaving office, his name did not fade from the political scene. Rather, he continued to evolve, expanding his network and deepening his relevance in the state’s political structure. His experience in governance gave him the confidence of someone who understands what it takes to manage people, resources, and expectations at the grassroots.

Like many leaders with a strong sense of duty, Dr. Adeniran also nursed an ambition to lead Oyo State at the highest level. His attempt at securing the gubernatorial ticket under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2018 ahead of the 2019 general elections was not merely an experiment; it was an expression of a man who believed he had the vision, competence and passion to move the state forward.

However, what has stood out in his political story is not just ambition, but sacrifice. His love for Oyo State, and his belief in a bigger picture, later led him to make strategic decisions that surprised many. Rather than pursuing personal ambition at all costs, he succumbed to what he considered a more urgent need, ensuring that Oyo State experienced a new political direction in 2019.

This conviction was part of what pushed him into working strongly for the success of Governor Seyi Makinde in 2019. For Dr. Adeniran, it was not just about supporting a candidate; it was about supporting a movement for a new kind of governance in Oyo State. That decision has since become one of the most defining moments of his political journey.

His role in Makinde’s political victories has been widely acknowledged. Serving as the Secretary and Deputy Director-General of the campaign council in 2019 and 2023 respectively, Dr. Adeniran played a strategic role in building the mobilisation strength that delivered victory at the polls. He was also the Oyo state Presidential campaign coordinator for the PDP in 2019. Those close to the campaign structure describe him as a disciplined organiser and a reliable political engine behind the scenes.

What made his role even more remarkable is that he did not do it once. He repeated the feat, ensuring that Governor Makinde not only won in 2019 but also returned for a second term in 2023. As a trusted ally of the Governor, He was the collation agent for the governorship election both in 2019 and 2023, where he performed creditably well.In a political environment where loyalty is often temporary, Dr. Adeniran’s consistency and commitment have earned him admiration from supporters and respect from political rivals.

Over time, his followership has grown beyond comparison, particularly as he transitioned into a more visible leadership role within the education sector. Many believe that his political relevance has expanded significantly because people now see not just his political history, but also his performance in public office.

This is especially evident in his current role as the Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB). Education remains one of the most sensitive and important sectors in governance, and Dr. Adeniran’s appointment to lead the board came with high expectations. Yet, he has approached the responsibility with the seriousness of a man who understands that the future of Oyo State depends on what happens in its classrooms.

As OYOSUBEB Chairman, he has championed efforts aimed at improving basic education across the state. His focus has included strengthening infrastructure in public primary schools, improving learning environments, and ensuring that the welfare of pupils remains a key priority. Under his leadership, many communities have witnessed renewed attention to school rehabilitation, classroom development and educational support systems.

He has also continued to emphasise the importance of quality teachers, capacity building and improved administrative monitoring. Education stakeholders note that his approach is not merely about constructing buildings, but about creating a system where children can truly learn, grow and compete favourably with others across the country.

Dr. Adeniran’s strides at OYOSUBEB have further boosted his public image and widened his support base across Oyo State. For many parents and education advocates, his efforts represent hope, proof that government presence can be felt in the everyday lives of ordinary citizens. And in politics, nothing builds trust faster than visible impact.

It is therefore not surprising that there is now a prevailing call in some quarters for his candidacy in the 2027 governorship election. Supporters argue that he has served past administrations, served party structures, served political leaders, and served Oyo State in different capacities, and that the time has come for him to serve at the highest political office in the State to be able to showcase his qualities and make life better for the people of Oyo State.

This sentiment has continued to grow, especially among those who believe that leadership should reward loyalty, competence and experience. Many of his admirers insist that Dr. Adeniran is one of the few politicians who have remained consistent in the state’s political evolution, never abandoning the grassroots and never losing touch with the people.

The coming year, 2027 is clearly a defining political moment for Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, who has built a reputation that cannot be ignored. He represents the rare blend of intellectual depth, political experience and grassroots strength. From being the son of a respected politician, to becoming a lecturer, lawyer, educationist and political strategist, his journey reflects dedication and growth.

In today’s Oyo State, where governance is increasingly judged by performance rather than mere rhetoric, Dr. Adeniran’s story continues to resonate. And as he drives reforms in basic education through OYOSUBEB, many believe he is not only shaping young minds, but also building the kind of legacy that positions him for even greater responsibilities in the future.