The recently launched book, “Know Oyo State“, authored by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, received glowing commendations from reviewers and stakeholders at a high-profile event in Ibadan. The launch also drew significant donations aimed at enhancing access to the book across schools and communities in Oyo State.
At the well-attended event, notable academics, policy advocates, and cultural experts took turns reviewing the book, describing it as a landmark literary contribution that encapsulates Oyo State’s historical evolution, governance trajectory, cultural heritage, and development outlook.
One of the lead reviewers, Dr. Bamidele Adediran, a historian from the University of Ibadan, said the book “offers a much-needed synthesis of Oyo’s traditional and contemporary identity.” According to him, the work fills a void in documented history and provides a resource that can shape civic consciousness among students and policymakers alike.
Child education advocate, Mrs. Funmilola Olatunji, praised the book’s relevance to the education sector, stating that it could “serve as an effective civic tool in classrooms, helping students understand the roots of their state while inspiring pride and responsible citizenship.”
Also lending his voice, former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Kehinde Balogun, commended the inclusion of governance and economic development chapters, noting that the book could become a key policy guide for administrators and development practitioners.
Beyond the reviews, the event witnessed a surge of philanthropic support from corporate and individual donors, with millions of naira committed to expanding the book’s reach. The Oyo State Development Trust pledged the printing and distribution of 1,000 copies to public schools across the state.
Similarly, Ibadan-based philanthropist, Alhaja Morenike Afolabi, announced a donation of ₦5 million to support the development of a digital version of the book. Tech entrepreneur and CEO of OyoTech Solutions, Mr. Kunle Adebayo, donated 500 electronic tablets preloaded with the e-book, to be distributed to underserved schools in remote areas.
Another donor, Mrs. Tosin Oladele, committed ₦2 million to fund community literacy events, including reading sessions and history workshops in Oyo’s 33 local government areas.
Reacting to the outpouring of support, Prince Oyelade expressed gratitude to all donors and attendees, describing the gesture as a vote of confidence in the book’s long-term value. “These contributions are not just about promoting a book. They are about reshaping our educational foundation and instilling civic knowledge among future generations,” he said.
He also unveiled plans for a state-wide outreach campaign that will see Know Oyo State distributed to over 100 public schools, teacher training workshops organized for classroom integration, and a new online platform launched to host interactive resources.
Highlighting the book’s strategic relevance, Oyelade noted that the publication aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader vision for civic education and knowledge-based governance.
The launch ceremony concluded with a cultural performance by the Aaro Cultural Ensemble, celebrating Oyo’s rich Yoruba heritage and underscoring the themes of pride and identity explored in the book.
The event, attended by dignitaries from academia, government, civil society, and the private sector, reinforced the view that Know Oyo State is more than a historical chronicle—it is a tool for civic reawakening and a bridge between Oyo’s legacy and its future.