I am super proud today as it is also a very big day in Engr. Seyi Makinde’s political career. It is his fifth year celebrating an amazing tenure as Oyo State’s Executive Governor.
This is not just a celebration of tenure, it is a tribute to half a decade of innovative leadership, unrelenting dedication, and transformative successes that have had a tremendous influence on the lives of Oyo State residents – like no other.
But who’s counting? As his friend, close ally, and business associate, I have had the singular honor of sitting and interacting with this one-of-a-kind enigmatic genius in private and in public and personally observing the exceptional attributes that characterize Governor Makinde’s style of leadership in life, in business and in governance. He is heartfelt and intentionally builds deep personal connections. Never one to be frivolous or flippant, he is accomplished to unbelievable heights, yet humble to unbelievable depths.
Throughout his tenure, he has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to openness, a dogged pursuit of excellence, razor- sharp intellect, pursuit of incremental improvement, laser focus on the outcomes based on the documented Roadmap to Accelerated Development and Roadmap to Sustainable Development ideals, and a deep-seated belief in the potential of Oyo State and its people for shared economic prosperity.
Governor Seyi Makinde has commissioned the 76.7 km Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomosho road, the longest in Oyo State’s democratic history. This vital infrastructure links Oke Ogun and Ogbomosho, significantly contributing to the growth of Oke Ogun and strengthening its economic ties with other regions. As an indigene of Oke Ogun, I recognize the immense value this road brings to our community.
The Governor has consistently emphasized that good roads pave the way for development, and this project underscores his commitment to the overall growth and prosperity of Oyo State.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s tenure has been marked by strategic economic initiatives that align with the Oyo State Road Maps midwife by my dear brother and erudite Economist, Professor Musbau Babatunde. His administration has focused on creating an enabling environment for investment, which has attracted both local and international investors.
In the last few months, he has driven effective economic initiatives. Some of which are the Oyo State London International Business Summit 2023 and the 15th Oxford Africa Business Forum, where he was a keynote Speaker. Just recently, he facilitated a gas project worth about $100 million with Shell, which involves the construction of a Pressure Reduction and Metering Station (PRMS) and laying of pipelines by SNG on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis. It is very important to reiterate therefore, that the gas distribution project will be a game-changer in the industrialization drive of the Oyo State Government and help boost robustly the Internally Generated Revenue of the State, leading to job opportunities.
His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde undoubtedly has genuine Love for the people, holding onto quality welfare of the Citizens without being distracted, and he displays this always. All of these efforts have not only enhanced the State’s revenue base but also provided opportunities for small and medium enterprises to thrive, contributing significantly to the overall economic development of Oyo State.
Beside these, Oyo State has witnessed immeasurable growth in a large number of areas under Governor Makinde’s leadership, each of which reflects his dynamic style and strategic vision. For instance, Governor Makinde’s administration has made significant investments in the educational sector because it recognizes that education is the cornerstone of societal growth. More than 300 schools have been renovated by his administration, which has also instituted free and compulsory education and made sure that Teachers are paid on schedule.
Furthermore, it is impossible to overstate his contributions to LAUTECH and the transformation of Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo into a University of Education. In addition to the creation of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency and the rehabilitation of basic healthcare institutions, he also saw to the renovation of Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, which bear witness to his dedication to provide affordable, first-rate healthcare to all residents in the State.
Oyo State has attracted both domestic and foreign investors under his direction, emerging as a shining example for investment. Because of his administration’s emphasis on establishing a business-friendly atmosphere, various industrial parks have been established and dormant businesses have been revitalized, which has promoted economic growth and the creation of jobs for many.
Governor Makinde’s administration is distinguished by its steadfast dedication to openness and sound government. His transparent style of government, simple and efficient, which is exemplified by many town hall gatherings and interactions with stakeholders, has promoted an environment of trust and accountability. Oyo State’s standing as a leader in governance has been further cemented by the adoption of the Open Governance Partnership.
Whilst we all honor these five years of incredible accomplishments, it is also a time to optimistically look to the future. It is still Governor Makinde’s stated goal to create an economically successful, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable state in Oyo State. His ongoing emphasis on infrastructure, economic diversification, healthcare, education, and good administration would surely help Oyo State achieve greater success.
I would like to offer Governor Seyi Makinde my sincere congratulations on this momentous occasion. In addition to transforming Oyo State, his outstanding leadership has raised the bar for Nigerian governance. I am incredibly personally proud of his accomplishments as his brother and friend, and I have no doubt that his legacy will encourage future generations to pursue greatness.
Let us toast to a brighter Oyo State under the leadership of my dearest brother, friend and mentor, Engineer Seyi Makinde who also happens to be His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State.
With utmost admiration and respect.
– Amofin Beulah Adeoye
