The Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, has been conferred with the award of the Fellow of the National Institute of Credit Administration (FICA), in recognition of his sterling contributions to policy making and entrepreneurship development.

The conferment, which took place at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, brought together distinguished professionals, policymakers, financial experts and captains of industries from across the country.

Speaking shortly after the conferment, Talabi expressed profound appreciation to the leadership and Governing Council of the Institute for the honour bestowed on him, noting that it was another clarion call for him as a public official to strive more in adding values to governance, especially in the promotion of accountability.

He added that the recognition was a call to greater service and renewed commitment to strengthening credit management systems in the management of scarce government resources for the benefit of the common man.

According to him, "building a robust credit culture will enhance transparency, promote responsible borrowing and stimulate investment across Nigeria".

He noted that as the Secretary to Ogun State Government under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun's administration, the government remained committed to policies that encourage fiscal responsibility, financial inclusion and institutional reforms aimed at improving economic stability".

“As government officials, we must continue to support frameworks that strengthen financial systems and promote accountability. Sound credit management is essential to national development,” he stated.

He also commended the visionary leadership and dedication of the new President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute, Dr. (Mrs.) Markie Idowu, for advancing the cause of professional standards in credit administration in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Dr. (Mrs.) Idowu pledged to uphold the principles, ethics and professional standards of the Institute, assuring members and stakeholders of her commitment to strengthening institutional integrity and promoting best practices in credit management across the country.