The Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform the state ahead of its 50th anniversary, scheduled for February 3, 2026.
Speaking during a comprehensive State of the State Address at the Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Governor Makinde outlined bold initiatives across security, infrastructure, economy, and public welfare.
Governor Makinde announced that the state government is set to procure two surveillance aircraft to strengthen security across Oyo. The aircraft are expected to be in operation before the state’s golden jubilee celebration. He emphasized that this move aligns with his administration’s broader goal of securing lives and property while fostering an environment conducive to economic and social development.
Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive growth, Makinde said his administration remains focused on building a resilient economy, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and ensuring long-term prosperity. He noted that the state’s transparent and simplified governance style has made Oyo a magnet for investors.
Among the achievements he highlighted: Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub has been recognized by the African Development Bank (AfDB) as Nigeria’s first agricultural transformation centre.
Construction work is ongoing at the Eruwa Agribusiness Industrial Hub.
Oyo State recently became the first sub-national in Africa to join the World Union of Wholesale Markets, a significant milestone in global market integration.
Governor Makinde detailed the administration’s massive investments in infrastructure: The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan is undergoing a major upgrade, with Phase 1 set for commissioning in October 2025.
Several key arterial roads and inner-city routes, especially in Ibadan, have already been rehabilitated.
Under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), 87 kilometres of rural roads are currently being constructed.
Work is ongoing on the 48-kilometre Ido–Eruwa Road, with additional plans to fix roads in Oyo and Ogbomoso zones in the months ahead.
In the social sector, Makinde pledged continued efforts to bridge the educational gap between urban and rural areas. He promised sustained upgrades to learning facilities and support systems to reduce infrastructure deficits in public education.
In healthcare, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue implementing people-centered programmes that deliver measurable improvements in public health access and outcomes.
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Looking ahead to Oyo State’s 50th anniversary, Governor Makinde expressed gratitude for leading the state during such a pivotal moment in its history. He assured residents that the celebration would be marked by transformational projects that will serve as lasting legacies.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, commended the governor for prioritizing the welfare of state workers and for approving the recruitment of 181 new staff for the House of Assembly.
He reaffirmed the 10th Assembly’s commitment to delivering responsive representation, effective legislation, and accountable governance.