In a time when citizens are calling for leaders who understand the future, protect the present, and respect the past, one name continues to shine brightly: Dr. Ololade Usman Bakare. He represents a new generation of leadership that combines deep roots in the community with global exposure and proven results. He is not a man of empty promises; he is a man whose life work already reflects the change many people hope to see. Born in the heart of Ibadan and trained on some of the world’s best platforms, Dr. Bakare brings together technology, integrity, service, and compassion. He is exactly the kind of leader Oyo State needs for its next stage of progress; bold, prepared, and deeply committed to the people.
Dr. Bakare’s life story is one of determination and humility. Raised in Iyanda’s Compound in Isale Bode, Ibadan, he grew up with an understanding of the daily struggles, values and aspirations of the ordinary Oyo citizen. His journey from familiar neighbourhood schools in Ibadan to advanced studies in the United Kingdom shows the determination of someone who rose by hard work, not privilege. As someone who has experienced the realities of both modest beginnings and global excellence, he understands what the state needs to grow, and how to bring modern ideas without losing cultural identity.
With over 17 years of experience in banking, information technology, and public service, Dr. Bakare has become known as a problem-solver and an innovative thinker. His training in Computer Science and Information Security shaped him into a digital-age professional, ready for the complexities of modern governance. His many professional certifications, including CISA, CISM, and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, show his competence not just as a Nigerian expert, but as someone respected across the world.
His professional journey began at First Bank, where he played a key role in helping the bank meet global information security standards. He later joined the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), where he rose to become Senior Manager responsible for Cybersecurity Risk Management. At FIRS, he helped transform tax operations, strengthen digital systems, protect national revenue, and block financial leakages through technology. His work has made government processes more secure, more transparent, and more efficient; qualities Oyo State urgently needs in a leader.
Beyond official duties, Dr. Bakare is a mentor and nation-builder. In the Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) and ISACA Abuja Chapter, he has trained and guided many young people who are now thriving in the digital economy. He has led nationwide cyber awareness campaigns to protect citizens from online threats and has supported thousands of learners through training, coaching, and capacity-building.
His commitment to society is also seen through the many initiatives he founded: Igbega Oyo Initiative, CEDELA, CEDELA Technology Park, Innovate Naija, CODE4D, and the iRES Cybersecurity Hotline. These projects focus on leadership, education, innovation and empowerment. They show that Dr. Bakare does not wait for political office before making a difference; he leads positive change wherever he is.
Today, Dr. Bakare is stepping forward with a clear ambition: to serve as the next Governor of Oyo State. His vision is to build a modern, secure, and prosperous state where technology drives development, where public resources are managed with transparency, and where everyone; young or old, rural or urban, has the chance to grow. He wants to create jobs through innovation, improve schools and hospitals, strengthen security with modern tools, support farmers and small businesses and make government more open and accountable.
To him, leadership is service, not position. Governance is a duty, not an opportunity for personal gain. He believes that Oyo State is ready for a new kind of leadership; one built on honesty, competence, innovation, and the courage to do what is right.
Dr. Bakare is married and blessed with children and the values he holds in high esteem: discipline, humility, and service, continue to guide his actions both at home and in public life.
Dr. Ololade Usman Bakare stands for progress, innovation, and a brighter future for Oyo State. He is ready to work, ready to serve, and ready to lead the people into a new era of growth and opportunity.
Yusuf Olalekan Olabamiji writes from Ibadan ,Oyo state.
