The Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has officially recognized Ogun State as a 'state of many firsts,' highlighting its distinction as the home state of both the first and current Director General of the prestigious institute.

This commendation was delivered by the National President of the NIPSS Alumni Association, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi-Okafor, during a courtesy visit to the Ogun State Deputy Governor's office on Monday.

Ambassador Obi-Okafor explained that NIPSS was established to serve as a center for policy research, reflection, and dialogue. He noted that the institute also functions as a platform for developing top-tier technocrats capable of conceptualizing and implementing innovative policy initiatives across Nigeria.

The NIPSS delegation, which visited the state to inaugurate its Ogun State chapter, praised the current administration for transforming the state into a preferred destination for both investors and visitors.

Responding to the delegation, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele expressed her pleasure in receiving the high-powered team from the National Institute. She acknowledged NIPSS's significant contributions to human capacity development across Nigeria.

"The current administration in Ogun State is committed to ensuring that the state remains a state of many firsts," Salako-Oyedele stated. She further observed that the caliber of NIPSS members (Mni's) from Ogun State demonstrates that "only the best of the best gets the rare chance of undertaking the sought-after course."

The Deputy Governor used the opportunity to advocate for greater gender balance in the selection process of participants to the Institute, noting that "there could never be too many women involved in policy making."

Salako-Oyedele reaffirmed the state government's commitment to supporting the institute and ensuring that its personnel receive adequate training whenever necessary.

The establishment of an Ogun State chapter of the NIPSS Alumni Association is expected to further strengthen policy development and implementation within the state, leveraging the expertise of some of Nigeria's finest policy minds.