The new Controller of the Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED), Edo State Chapter, Mr Oladele Ogundele, has promised to run an open-door policy, urging members of the association to shun bitterness.
Ogundele, who was elected alongside other members of the executive on Thursday in Benin City, said his aim is to lead with transparency, accountability, and integrity, adding that his administration will strengthen the grassroots structure of the association.
Delivering his acceptance speech immediately after the election, he pledged to promote unity, inclusiveness, and professionalism.
He said; “With a heart full of gratitude to God Almighty, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility, I stand before you today to sincerely appreciate every member of AFED Edo State Chapter for the confidence and trust you have reposed in me by electing me as your new State Controller.
“This victory is not mine alone. It is a collective victory for unity, progress, continuity, and the shared vision of a stronger and more impactful AFED Edo State.
“I want to specially appreciate every delegate, every supporter, every colleague, every friend, and every stakeholder who believed in this vision and worked tirelessly to make this moment possible. Your support, encouragement, prayers, and sacrifices will never be taken for granted.
“I also extend my profound respect and appreciation to all contestants for their courage, maturity, and commitment to the growth of our association. Elections may come with competition, but after today, we remain one united AFED family working toward one common goal — the advancement of education and the progress of our association.”
He thanked the outgoing executive for the foundation it had laid.
“To the outgoing leadership and all past leaders of AFED Edo State, thank you for the foundation you have laid, the sacrifices you have made, and the structures you have built over the years,” while expressing his commitment to consolidating on the achievements of the past administration.
In his manifesto, he said, “My aim is to lead with transparency, accountability, and integrity.
“To strengthen our grassroots structure across all 18 Local Government Areas. To improve member welfare and cooperative development. To strengthen educational programmes and examination coordination. To modernise our administration through digital innovation. To position AFED Edo State as a leading voice in educational development in Nigeria.
“I assure every member that this administration shall be open, accessible, responsive, and people-oriented. Every member matters. Every chapter matters. Every voice matters.
“This is not the time for division; this is the time for collaboration. This is not the time for bitterness; this is the time for rebuilding stronger bonds.
“This is not the time for personal interests; this is the time for collective progress. ” He concluded.
The new executive includes: Oladele Ogundele, Controller; Dr Peace Chukwurah, Deputy Controller; Pastor Nosa Asemota, Secretary; Bishop Okhimamhe Emmanuel, Assistant Secretary; Abraham Blessing Obehi, Treasurer. Others are: Enakunu Nonyelum Oghenekevwe, Financial Secretary; Chaplain Umoh E. Edem, ICT Officer; Esther Omonjiade, Welfare Officer; Esther Ekhurutomwen, Internal Auditor; Pastor Victor Akhere Ehimen, AFED Electoral Chairman.
