Long before his name appeared in official announcements or government circulars, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa—fondly known as Sman—was already embodying the spirit of public service in the most ordinary yet profound ways.
As a child, I first knew him as a neighbour. He was the civil servant on the next street, leaving home early each morning with his Lagos State Government ID card dangling in his car. It was a simple routine, but it spoke volumes: discipline, responsibility, and commitment. Even then, I admired how he lived a modest life yet carried immense passion for his work.
In 2016, while awaiting university admission and having just resigned from my job as a primary school teacher, I approached him for guidance. He offered me a role as his Personal Assistant—a turning point that allowed me to witness his character and ethics up close. Over the years, one trait has remained constant: Dr. Ogunmuyiwa’s unwavering dedication to human development and societal progress, rooted in his belief that true advancement only comes when things are done properly.
A Career Built on Discipline and Vision
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa began his professional journey in 1995 as a classroom teacher within the Lagos State education system. His proficiency with computers quickly set him apart, earning him a role as Personal Assistant to a Tutor-General in one of the state’s educational districts. This early exposure to public administration and policy execution gave him a deep understanding of how systems function and why procedures matter.
From those beginnings, his career steadily advanced. Over more than 25 years in public service, he has accumulated vast experience in school evaluation, educational planning, and quality assurance. He has served as Head of Planning, Head of Education Quality Assurance Services, and most recently as Director of Private Education and Special Programmes at the Office of Education Quality Assurance. In these roles, he oversaw school accreditation, quality monitoring, and improvement initiatives that shaped both public and private institutions across Lagos State.
Academic Excellence and Integrity
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa’s academic achievements reflect the seriousness with which he approaches his work. He holds a PhD in Educational Administration and Planning from the University of Abuja, two Master’s degrees—one in Educational Administration and another in Guidance and Counselling—and a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Lagos. These qualifications are not mere titles; they actively inform his decisions and shape his leadership style.
Yet, beyond competence, what truly distinguishes him is character. He is widely respected for his integrity, fairness, and genuine concern for people—whether teachers, students, school owners, or fellow civil servants. Colleagues often describe him as firm but fair, principled yet humane.
Mentor and Builder of Capacity
Outside his formal duties, Dr. Ogunmuyiwa has earned admiration as a mentor. He regularly guides young professionals and civil servants, offering practical advice grounded in experience. He has facilitated numerous training sessions for government agencies, private organisations, and young graduates, contributing significantly to capacity development in the education sector.
A New Chapter in Leadership
On Thursday, December 11, 2025, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appointed Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa as the Director-General of the Office of Education Quality Assurance. For those who have known him, this appointment feels less like a new chapter and more like a continuation of his lifelong mission.
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa has always believed that systems matter, that standards matter, and that public service must be approached with sincerity. His conviction—that progress is only possible when things are done the right way—has shaped his career and now positions him to influence the education sector at an even higher level.
As he assumes office, Lagos State entrusts a critical institution to someone who understands both policy and people. His journey is a reminder that true leadership is built over time through discipline, consistency, and a genuine commitment to service. In an era where public trust is often strained, Sman stands as a model of public service rooted in integrity and purpose.
By Chinedu Okafor, African Correspondent
