By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Hon. Babatunde Hunpe |
BADAGRY, Lagos — Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, fMHR, has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and Public Resources Management by the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (CIPRMP), Ghana.
This landmark recognition, which includes his induction into the Institute's 2026 Hall of Fame, underscores his three-decade-long journey of excellence in Nigerian public service and legislative governance.
The award ceremony, held at the Chairman’s office in Badagry, was led by Dr. Babatunde Newton, the Institute’s 2nd Vice-President (Academic), alongside Engr. Mike Shey Phillips and Mrs. Victoria Olanrewaju. During the presentation, the Institute lauded Hon. Hunpe’s trajectory as a model of integrity and disciplined execution, citing his transition from local administration to high-level state and federal roles.
The CIPRMP, an international body established in 1995, noted that Hon. Hunpe’s leadership stands as a "beacon of hope" for West African public administration. His career highlights include: Special Adviser on Rural Development: Under Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (2011–2015). Special Adviser on Environment: Under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019). Federal Legislator: Representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the 9th National Assembly (2019–2023).
The Institute’s governing council emphasized that this Honorary Doctorate is not merely a title but a recognition of transformative contributions. Since assuming office as the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government in July 2025, Hunpe has aggressively pursued a vision of tourism revitalization, infrastructure development, and economic inclusion.
"Hon. Hunpe is an exceptional leader whose over three decades of service reflect a rare combination of strategic vision and unwavering integrity," remarked Dr. Babatunde Newton.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Hunpe expressed profound humility, noting that international recognition from a Ghanaian-based institute was both "amazing and inspiring." He dedicated the award to the people of Badagry, pledging to use the platform to further elevate the community’s socio-economic status.
"I am deeply honored," Hunpe said. "This recognition inspires me to continue delivering purposeful, transformative leadership. I pledge to remain committed to excellence and integrity, ensuring that our community continues to grow, prosper, and thrive under a vision-driven administration."
The Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics, Ghana, plays a pivotal role in shaping corporate governance and public policy across member nations like Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, and Kenya. By inducting leaders like Hon. Hunpe into its Hall of Fame, the Institute aims to foster a culture of accountable statesmanship.and professional excellence within the African continent.
The 2026 induction cycle has focused on leaders who have demonstrated "field-proven" success in managing public resources amidst the evolving economic challenges of the West African sub-region.