Duty to Legacy: Honoring Comrade Michael Abiodun Oni’s 35-Year Odyssey in Civil Service
Akure, Ondo State – June 3, 2026
After 35 years of dedicated service to the Federal Civil Service, Comrade Michael Abiodun Oni today retires as a Deputy Director (Grade Level 16), closing a remarkable chapter in public service marked by commitment, perseverance, and community engagement.
Born in the early 1970s into the esteemed Oni Dynasty of Ilemo Quarters, Akure Kingdom, Oni’s early life was shaped by the cultural richness and communal values of Yoruba society. Ilemo, one of the oldest and most respected quarters in Akure, instilled in him respect for elders, a sense of collective responsibility, and an enduring appreciation for cultural heritage.
Oni’s educational journey began at L.A. School II, Oke Bola, Akure, in 1978, culminating in his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1984. He later attended Alakunre Comprehensive High School, completing his Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) in 1990, during a period of national economic hardship under the Structural Adjustment Programme.
Guided by the late Dr. Ifedayo Daramola, Oni embarked on his civil service career with the Mass Mobilisation for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) on June 3, 1991, starting humbly as a Messenger/Cleaner. His early experiences highlighted the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and education as pathways to personal and professional growth.
Oni pursued further education at Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, earning a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Geography/Integrated Science in 1999, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Education (B.Sc. Ed. Hons) in Geography, graduating with a Second Class (Lower Division). He attributes his success to God’s grace and the guidance of mentors, including Professor Adetoye Martins, Mr. Bode Famose (Dr. Lopez), and Pastor Mrs. Famuyiwa A.O., among others.
In 2006, Oni was promoted to the officers’ cadre within the National Orientation Agency (NOA), marking a significant milestone in his career. Between 2003 and 2012, he served in various capacities across Ondo State’s local government areas, engaging with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organizations, religious bodies, and local government officials to promote civic awareness and government initiatives.
A key highlight of Oni’s career came in 2012 when he joined the Press Crew of the administration of then-Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. Over five years, he documented and publicized government programmes aimed at national unity, civic responsibility, and public awareness, honing his expertise in media relations and public communication.
Beyond his professional duties, Oni demonstrated a deep commitment to community development. He served as President of the Akure Students’ Union at Adeyemi College of Education (1998/1999), President of the Akure Divisional Federal Workers’ Association of Nigeria (ADFWAN, 2017–2022), and Chair of the Organising Committee of Akure Sons and Daughters Home and Abroad (ASADHAA, 2020). He also participated in several civic committees, including the Relocation Committee of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), the Ulefunta Festival Committee, and the FUTA Teaching Hospital Project Committee.
Reflecting on his 35-year journey, Oni describes his career not merely as a profession, but as a journey of service, growth, and learning. From his modest beginnings to his eventual role as Deputy Director, his story embodies the transformative power of education, mentorship, determination, and faith.
Today, as he retires, Comrade Michael Abiodun Oni leaves a legacy of excellence, dedication, and unwavering service to the nation, while looking forward to a new chapter in life enriched by continued engagement in faith, family, and community.
