The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, has commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for sustaining an inclusive, transparent and people-oriented approach to governance through the annual stakeholders’ consultative meeting on the state budget.
Olufade delivered the message on behalf of local government chairmen across Oyo State at the Oyo State Government’s stakeholders’ consultative meeting on the 2027 budget, held at Olola Ogunlana Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Second Gate, Ibadan.
The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to contribute ideas, communicate the needs of their communities and make recommendations towards shaping the priorities and developmental agenda of the state for the 2027 fiscal year.
Speaking on behalf of his fellow council chairmen, Olufade described the consultation as a significant demonstration of Governor Makinde’s commitment to participatory budgeting, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance.
He noted that giving citizens and stakeholders a voice in the budgeting process remained essential to ensuring that government policies and financial priorities reflected the genuine aspirations of the people.
According to him, the success of governance should ultimately be measured by its positive impact on ordinary citizens, particularly those at the grassroots who depend on government interventions for improved living conditions, infrastructure and access to essential services.
Olufade also used the opportunity to express the appreciation of the local government chairmen and the people of Oyo State to Governor Makinde for his dedication to the development of the state.
He urged the governor not to be distracted by critics, assuring him of the people’s appreciation and affection for his leadership.
The Ibadan North chairman, however, emphasised that despite the commendable efforts of the state government, there remained a need for further attention to inner roads across local government areas to improve accessibility, ease transportation and enhance the quality of life of residents.
He stressed that sustained collaboration between the state and local governments would further strengthen development at the grassroots and ensure that the benefits of governance reached more communities across Oyo State.
Olufade subsequently commended Governor Makinde for providing the platform for meaningful consultation and sustaining the vision of a prosperous, inclusive and people-oriented Oyo State.
He expressed confidence that the contributions gathered at the meeting would guide the formulation of a responsive 2027 budget capable of addressing the people’s needs while consolidating the developmental strides already recorded under the present administration.
The meeting further underscored the importance of collaboration between government and citizens in building a state where public resources are directed towards projects and programmes that deliver tangible benefits to the people.
Olufade concluded by praying for the continued peace, unity and progress of Oyo State, as well as the well-being of its people, particularly residents of Ibadan North Local Government.
