Hon. Taiwo Olukemi Oluga At 50: A Golden Symbol Of Grace, Governance, And Service By Adenitan Akinola

On Friday, June 20, 2025, Hon. Taiwo Olukemi Oluga, a woman of rare substance and service, clocked 50. This golden milestone offers not just a moment for celebration but a time to reflect on the impactful journey of an elegant and trailblazing public servant whose life and career have been committed to the betterment of her people, especially women and the girl-child.

Born on June 20, 1975, in Gbongan, Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State, Hon. Oluga has consistently combined beauty, brains, and benevolence in her unique brand of politics. She epitomizes the modern Nigerian woman in leadership—graceful yet grounded, visionary yet compassionate.

Her journey into public service is marked by academic excellence and institutional loyalty. She holds a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration and Management from the Federal Polytechnic, Ede; a Master’s degree in Social Work and an MBA from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho; and a Certificate in Education from Tower College, London. Currently, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Governance and Leadership at the University of Abuja—a fitting evidence of her lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.

Between 2017 and 2018, Hon. Oluga served as Special Adviser to the Governor of Osun State on Culture and Tourism, bringing her trademark dynamism to the promotion of the state’s rich heritage. Her service in this capacity laid the groundwork for her successful election into the 9th National Assembly, where she represented the good people of Irewole/Ayedaade/Isokan Federal Constituency with uncommon zeal and integrity.

During her tenure in the House of Representatives, Hon. Oluga made tangible impacts that extended far beyond her constituency. Notably, she facilitated federal employment for over 50 individuals across Osun State, a remarkable feat inspired by her own humbling experience as a young woman desperately searching for a white-collar job. She often recalls those moments of personal struggle—knocking on doors, pleading for opportunities—and sees every successful employment she secures for others as a victory of grace. Known for her deep spirituality and humility, she would roll on the floor in thanksgiving to God each time a beneficiary received their employment letter, overwhelmed by the privilege of being a vessel of hope.

Today, Hon. Oluga serves as a Member of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) representing the South West, a role that reflects the trust and esteem she commands nationally. Through this position, she continues to shape the engine room of Nigeria’s legislature with her experience, maturity, and leadership.

Recently, she deepened her legacy of compassion by establishing the Funmilayo Bamidele Oke Memorial Foundation (FBOMF), a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in memory of her beloved mother. The foundation targets two often-overlooked but critically important demographics: aged women (60 years and above) and young girls (below 25 years). Hon. Oluga believes firmly that empowering the elderly, especially those who are helpless and indigent, is a moral and social responsibility. At the same time, investing in young girls is a strategic pathway to securing the future of communities and the society at large.

Whether through scholarships, skill acquisition, health outreach, or community support, the FBOMF is already setting a new benchmark for impact, echoing her lifelong commitment to lifting others.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Hon. Oluga has consistently invested in grassroots football development, providing platforms and opportunities for budding talents across her constituency. Her philanthropic efforts—especially in the areas of education, women empowerment, and community health—have touched countless lives and transformed families.

Her professional affiliations mirror her multidimensional strengths. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Management, and now a Full-Fledged Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Management (NIM). She is also a Full Member of Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and a Member of the Malaysia Institute of Management. These international affiliations underscore her global outlook and commitment to best practices in public administration.

In an era when political office is too often seen as an end in itself, Hon. Taiwo Oluga remains a refreshing exception—one who sees leadership as a platform for lifting others. She has mentored dozens of young women into leadership, empowered countless entrepreneurs, and promoted culture as a tool of identity and development.

As she marks her 50th birthday, Hon. (Mrs) Taiwo Olukemi Oluga stands tall—not just as a politician, but as a stateswoman; not just as a leader, but as a builder of futures. Nigeria, and indeed Osun State, is richer for her contributions.

May the years ahead bring her greater heights, deeper impact, and continued grace.