CCII Honours Exceptional Engineer Open Salawu: A Trailblazer in Development, A Leader for the Future

In a bold and resounding endorsement of excellence, capacity, and service to humanity, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has conferred its prestigious title of Champion of Ibadan Development on none other than Engr. Open Salawu—a man whose name has become synonymous with transformation, vision, and success.

This is not just another award. The CCII, renowned for its integrity and discerning standards, only honours the best. For decades, the Council has stood as the voice and conscience of Ibadanland—bringing together all socio-cultural societies of Ibadan origin both home and abroad. To be recognised by such an august body is to be acknowledged as one of the finest sons of Ibadan.

Engr. Open Salawu fits that bill perfectly.

From his rise as a respected engineer to becoming one of the best through sheer ingenuity, discipline, and integrity, Engr. Salawu has carved a unique place for himself in the annals of Ibadan’s development. As founder of Opinior Engineering and Opinior Consult, he has led groundbreaking infrastructure and consulting projects across Nigeria (FCT, Niger State, Nasarawa, Oyo State and many others) —earning him national acclaim as one of the country’s most successful engineering entrepreneurs.

In real estate, Engr. Salawu has equally left an indelible mark. A self-made billionaire whose developments have redefined modern housing and urban aesthetics, his contributions to Oyo state landscape are visible, practical, and transformative.

As Chairman of the Oyo State Project Performance Monitoring Agency, Engr. Salawu has continued to serve with diligence and distinction, ensuring that Governor Seyi Makinde’s landmark projects—such as the 110km Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, the modernisation of Ladoke Akintola Airport, and over 100km of township road rehabilitation—are delivered with precision and accountability.

In his acceptance speech, Engr. Salawu praised the foresight and relentless commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde, while also thanking the CCII for recognizing excellence and merit. “To be honoured by the CCII is a privilege I do not take lightly,” he said. “Their decision to spotlight performance sends a strong message: that hard work, integrity, and results still matter.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Ibadanland, and indeed Oyo State, promising to continue championing impactful development and transparent governance across all zones.

The message from this moment is clear: Engr. Open Salawu is not just an achiever—he is a leader whose time has come. The future belongs to those who have succeeded in private enterprise and proven themselves in public service. In Engr. Salawu, Ibadan has found such a leader—tested, trusted, and ready.

As political stakeholders, youth groups, and traditional leaders reflect on the next phase of leadership in Oyo State, it is clear that the calibre of men like Engr. Open Salawu must not only be celebrated—but entrusted with higher responsibilities.

The CCII has spoken. Ibadan is watching. The people are ready.