Makinde Archives - Page 6 of 9

Oyo Pensioners Hail Makinde For Restating Commitment To Retirees’ Welfare

February 13, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Pensioners from all geopolitical zones of Oyo State, on Thursday, converged on the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, in their hundreds to appreciate the state governor for turning around their fortunes through the recent review of pensions in the state. The pensioners, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Oyo State Council, stated that the review has made Oyo State pensioners the highest paid state pensioners in the federation. This was as the NUP, South-West Zonal Council, also lauded Governor Makinde for the review of pensions, which led to the payment of N25,000 as minimum pension to the least paid pensioner, the factoring of 33 per cent pension increase of 2010, the consequential adjustment of 2019, 20 per cent of pension increase and part of N32,000 minimum wage across board for Oyo State pensioners. The South-West NUP, in a letter dated 12th February, 2025 and signed by its chairman Comrade Waidi Oloyede and secretary, Comrade Sunday Akin, expressed its gratitude to the governor. Speaking at the appreciation rally, the Secretary of the NUP, Oyo State Council, Comrade Olusegun Abatan, in a speech entitled “Resurrected Pensioners in Oyo State Appreciate Engr. Seyi Makinde” praised the governor for changing the plight of pensioners. He maintained that the governor started on a great note when he assumed office in 2019 by paying gratuities that were “criminally held down for a whole eight years,” started paying pensions on the 25th of every month and crowned the efforts with the latest review of pensions after all entreaties to previous administrations failed. He said: “16 years before you took over the mantle of government in Oyo State, pensioners had no government that was sympathetic and empathetic to their plights. Gratuities were not paid as and when due, pensions of those times were withheld or paid in instalments and all entreaties to the governments fell on deaf ears, resulting in massive deaths of our members. “At one point, Oyo State pensioners were referred to as dead people and in actual fact, we were dying like fowls afflicted by Newcastle disease. When you contested for the first term, we just wanted anybody that would liberate us from the shackles of death and we went ahead to vote enmasse for you. We did the same thing when you threw your hat into the ring for a second term. “You have not disappointed us. Our pensions became regular; you started paying our gratuities that were criminally held down for a whole eight years because we were alleged not to have voted for them. “During those locust years, extant provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) which stipulated that pensions should be increased were jettisoned outright by past administrations. This culminated in some of our members earning between N350-N1,000 as monthly pensions. All entreaties to those emperors fell on deaf ears. “The only respite we had was a token review of pensions 18 years ago, with increases in pensions from 2007 to 2019 sniggered at by past governors. Our union began its legitimate pressure for the implementation of pension increases when you became governor and you took time consulting widely on how to go about reviewing the stagnant pensions. “We know all bucks stop on your table and because we know you are kind, humane and compassionate to the pensioners, our letter to you struck humanity in you, resulting in your approval that the least paid pensioners in Oyo State should now earn N25,000 per month. “You didn’t stop there, you directed that all pension increases since 2007 be factored into the pensions of affected pensioners, culminating in unprecedented increase of pension of our members. This increase is unprecedented in the annals of pension review in Oyo State and the first of its kind in the whole of the federation.” In his response, Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, said that his government would continue to remain committed to the welfare of pensioners and improvement of their standard of living. The governor commended the pensioners and their leadership for showing gratitude to his government, stating that his government knows the importance of prioritising the welfare of pensioners, who had contributed 35 years of their lives to the development of the state during their active service years. He noted that in 2019, the gratuities and pension arrears owed by past administrations were to the tune of about N61 billion, but his government has been able to offset a huge chunk of the debt, declaring that the administration would offset the debt before the expiration of its second tenure in May 2027. He said: “Actually, what happened this morning was quite unprecedented in the sense that, in my experience, pensioners have never come to express appreciation to any government. “So, this is quite unprecedented and it is because of what this administration has done for them in terms of improving the welfare of pensioners in Oyo State. “You would have observed when Comrade Abatan indicated that before now, pensioners were receiving between N350 and N1,000 and that the last time a pension review was undertaken was during the administration of former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala. Since then, there have not been improvements in their pensions until now. “What we did as an administration was to look at all the circumstances — socio-economic and others and to say, okay, what will be the living pension for our pensioners? So, we fixed what we consider as a living pension which, in fact, was enough averagely for our pensioners. “To that extent, they felt they must come and show appreciation. What they have done this morning was a testament of appreciation, which would also make the government look into other areas where they can have advantage.” In attendance at the appreciation rally were the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Hon. Segun Olayiwola; … Read more

Ibadan’s SLA International Airport: A Symbol Of Makinde’s Commitment To Economic Growth |• By Kazeem Awojoodu

February 9, 2025 by admin

There is no doubt that Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde is doing everything possible to expand the economy of the state, as this can be attested to by numerous infrastructural projects put in place to enhance ease of doing business for interested foreign and indigenous investors. One of the projects that Governor Makinde will be remembered for in the history of Oyo State is the upgrade of Ibadan Airport now known as Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport to international airport. This development is another win for Oyo State under the administration of Engr Seyi Makinde, and it is also historic in the aviation industry of the country. With the Federal government approval, Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of upgrading the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) airport Ibadan to an international airport is fast becoming a reality. Governor Makinde in September 2024 performed the ground breaking ceremony of the first phase for the upgrade of the airport to international status. This project comprises extension of the runway from 2,400 metres to 3,000 meters with a width increase from 45 meters to 60 meters. To express his commitments to the project, and also ensure transparency, Governor Makinde appointed a chieftain of All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state who was a former commissioner for Finance during the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi administration, Mr Bimbo Adekanbi as the Chairman of the committee for the SLA Airport Upgrade Project. Just last week, Governor Makinde commenced the second phase of the upgrade with a foundation laying ceremony of the new international terminal building. While the first phase would be completed by September this year, the second phase which is expected to span 18 months is in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of redefining the aviation landscape for opportunities that would engender growth and connectivity to the world. Speaking shortly after the foundation laying ceremony of the project, Mr. Bimbo Adekanbi gave an overview of the project and its viability, affirming that the effort is another giant leap forward and a crucial component of the airport upgrade plan. Adekanbi noted that the new Terminal Building, which will be constructed by Messrs Craneburg Construction Ltd, represented a major transformation and a testament to the unwavering vision and exceptional leadership of Governor Makinde. He maintained that the project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, that it will ease the flow of passengers, boost the airports cargo handling capacity and position the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport as a top-tier facility in Nigeria. He said, “Today, we embark on a remarkable journey that will redefine the aviation landscape of this region, opening up new horizons of opportunity, growth, connectivity- the commencement of the construction of a new terminal building at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport. This event represents not only the start of a major transformation but also a testament to the unwavering vision and exceptional leadership of our Governor, His Excellency Engineer Seyi Makinde. “His Excellency has championed the development of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, not just as an infrastructural upgrade, but as a gateway to unlocking the immense economic potential of Oyo State and the entire Southwest region. His relentless pursuit of progress, coupled with his profound commitment to enhancing our state’s connectivity, is embodied in this grand project. “Governor Makinde’s foresight and dedication to ensuring a world-class facility for the people of Oyo State stand as an inspiring example of visionary governance. “His tireless work ethic and unwavering focus on sustainable development ensure that this airport will become a symbol of progress, prosperity, and pride for us all. The government had made tremendous progress in the first phase of the upgrade project, explaining that the state-of-the-art Terminal Building that will be delivered in the first quarter of 2026 will accommodate up to one million passengers annually, which is a massive increase from the current capacity of 100,000. “This initiative goes beyond just expanding capacity; it is about creating a modern, efficient, and world-class airport that enhances the overall travel experience while driving economic growth, attracting investments, and empowering the people of Oyo State. With Governor Seyi Makinde at the helm, the vision of a fully integrated, globally competitive airport is becoming a reality. “Oyo State Government remains steadfast in its dedication to improving infrastructure, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring sustainable development for all. Through projects like this, we are not only investing in physical structures but also in the future prosperity and well-being of our citizens. “With Governor Seyi Makinde leading the way, we are confident that the best is yet to come,” Adekanbi said. While conducting journalists and other stakeholders’ round the project, the Senior Manager, Craneburg Construction, Edmond Maalouf maintained that the project will be delivered on time, while the Site Engineer, Oliver Makhlouf, explained the success so far recorded on the upgrade of the airport runway. Speaking with journalists on the project, the Director of Engineering of the Federal Airport Authority (FAAN), Engr. Adejare Abiola, who represented the chairman of the organisation, lauded Governor Makinde for his efforts towards turning around the fortune of the Ibadan Airport. “We want to appreciate the Executive Governor of the state for what he has been doing. He has been supporting us. He has donated project vehicles for security patrol. Today again, he has fulfilled another promise and we, as FAAN, are ready to support him and the Airport. “I want to also thank the host community who have been good neighbours to us and, at the same time, appeal to them on the excavation that is ongoing around our perimeter fence. By the time the airport is completed, we have to invite the ICAA for certification, and some of the things they are going to look at include the safety and security of the airport. So, please, desist from excavating along our fence,” the FAAN chairman said. When completed, the SLA International Airport will boost economic activities in Oyo State and the entire South West especially in the area of … Read more

Makinde Receives Condolence Visit From Obasanjo, Arapaja, PDP NWC Over Brother’s Demise•••As PDP National Working Committee Promises To Resolve Internal Conflicts

January 30, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on Thursday joined many distinguished personalities that paid a condolence visit to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde over the death of his elder brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo arrived Governor Makinde private residence in Ibadan at the early hours of Thursday to sympathise with the bereaved Governor and the entire Makinde family. Recall that Engineer Sunday Makinde, aged 65, passed away on January 24, 2025. Similarly, the National Working Committee (NWC)) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by the National Deputy Chiarman of the party, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja paid Governor Makinde a condolence visit. During their visit, the Committee briefed the Governor about the rancour that erupted at the party’s national secretariat yesterday (Wednesday). They also maintained that the rancour will soon be resolved. While speaking, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja gave the assurance while reacting to the rancour, he described it as internal crisis which is expected to happen in such a big political party as PDP. He however assured party members that the rancour will be settled for the benefit and betterment of Nigerians ahead next general elections. In his condolence message, Ambassador Arapaja said that the late Engineer Sunday Makinde lived a fulfilled life which could be seen in Governor Makinde. Arapaja, the former deputy governor of Oyo State, prayed God to grant the deceased eternal life and grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss. The new secretary of the party, Udeh Okoye, were among the NWC that came to commiserate with Governor Makinde.

We’ve Created Enabling Environment For Tech Companies To Thrive – Makinde

January 27, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has stated that his government has done a number of things to create an enabling environment for technology-oriented companies and others to thrive in the state. The governor stated this at the weekend while delivering a remark at the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit 1.0 with the theme “The Rain of Transformation Is Upon Us: CEOs Arise,” held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Speaking at the summit, which was attended by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Governor Makinde, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Information Communication Technology, Mr Bayo Akande, said the government has undertaken several efforts towards making the state a conducive environment for technological innovations. He added that his administration has remained focused on creating and nurturing a supportive ecosystem for tech-driven initiatives. He said: “There are few things that the state government is doing such as creating an enabling environment for companies like RAIN to thrive. “This is very important and we have built institutes like Seyi Makinde Innovation and Technology Hub (SMITH), which helps in training students in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. “If you look at our tertiary institutions, we have brought in digital tools to unify our students’ information and management system, which enables companies like RAIN and others. “This is a discussion we are looking to have to then put some of their courses on platforms like this, which can give it a wider reach to citizens of Oyo State in partnership with RAIN. “Oyo State, as at a year ago, charged about N145 per linear meter. That’s in line with the NCC suggested rate. So, we are fully keyed into that to ease the cost of doing business for people who are trying to deliver infrastructure.” Earlier, the convener of the summit, Dr Olusola Ayoola, said that the RAIN summit was convened to bring innovators, entrepreneurs and youths together, saying: “The entrepreneurs are the ones that will pursue the commercial aspect of learning and development of our society while the young people are the ones that represent human capacity to develop such solutions. Olusola emphasised the importance of technology as a transformative force, stating that “technology is not just a tool; it is the backbone of our progress.” Dr. Ayoola called for partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders to harness technological advancements for national development. He articulated a vision where technology serves as a bridge to opportunities, saying that: “We must leverage our collective expertise to turn challenges into opportunities for our youths.”

Makinde Pays Oyo Workers New Minimum Wage

January 25, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government, on Friday, paid a total sum of ₦12 billion to the state government workers. In a statement on Saturday, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, said the money paid is a result of a promise kept by Governor Seyi Makinde on the ₦80,000 minimum wage for the state workers from January 1, 2025. He said, “One of the implications of the new wage is that workers on Grade Levels I to VI now enjoy a minimum of ₦50,000 increment while the salaries of those on Grade Level 17 shoot up by over ₦180,000. “In this same month of January, pensioners are not left behind in the comprehensive welfare. “A minimum pension of ₦25,000 and a 33 percent pension increment for over 40,000 retirees have been approved with immediate effect.” Meanwhile, the commissioner revealed that the state government has abolished the payment of ₦4,000 for retirement forms to further ease financial pressure on those planning to retire. Oyelade added that almost ₦20 million will go back into the pockets of about 4,500 workers who will retire soon.

Makinde Approves Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade As New Alaafin Of Oyo

January 10, 2025 by admin

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The approval, announced in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, followed thorough consultations and divinations by the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers of Oyo. The governor’s endorsement brings an end to the prolonged anticipation of a new monarch for the ancient kingdom. According to the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ademola Ojo, the announcement resolves the socio-political and legal disputes that have lingered since the passing of the late Alaafin, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022. Hon. Ojo urged all citizens of Oyo State to celebrate the occasion and offer their support to the new Alaafin. He expressed optimism that Prince Owoade’s reign would usher in an era of peace, prosperity, and unity for the historic Oyo Kingdom. The government, through the commissioner, reiterated its commitment to fostering harmony and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Oyo.

Makinde Assents To N684 Billion 2025 Appropriation Act

December 23, 2024 by admin

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Monday, said his administration had been able to improve the performance of the state’s annual budgets from 30 to 35 per cent to over 70 per cent because it “engages the whole spectrum of stakeholders in the budget process and has the interests of the state at heart.” The governor stated this when he assented to the N684 billion 2025 Appropriation Act tagged “Budget of Economic Stabilisation,” at a budget signing ceremony held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. He said that the government would target 80 per cent budget implementation in 2025, adding that his administration would push for reforms, people-centred policies and economic stability and work for the wellbeing of residents of the state. The governor noted that the 2025 budget would also play a key role in stabilising the economy of the state. He hailed the collaborative relationship between the executive and the legislative arms in the state, saying the whole process, including the stakeholders’ engagement meetings, budget preparation, the Treasury meetings and the scrutiny by the lawmakers, took about three months because all stakeholders prioritised the growth of the state. Governor Makinde also explained that the 2025 Budget has provision for the new minimum wage, stating that the new wage and consequential adjustments will take effect from January 1, 2025. The governor appreciated labour union leaders and the entire workforce in the state for their understanding and support regarding the implementation of the new minimum wage, reassuring that the government would pay the 13th month salary to all workers and retirees on 31st of December, 2024. He said: “This journey began in September 2024 when we kicked off the budget stakeholders’ meeting in all zones. After meeting with our people and hearing from them, we prepared the budget and we also had Treasury Board meetings. It is not just like a yearly ritual. “I will use this opportunity to thank everybody, because we explained to them. Before we started this minimum wage discussion, we discussed. The budget is almost like the operational manual to run this administration; it is like our Bible or Quran that we put by the side. And whatever you put in there, that is what you will want to follow through. “So, if we are saying from nowhere that we should start implementing the minimum wage and consequential adjustment in 2024, it is either we are not faithful to ourselves or we are not following our own laws. “We will start the implementation on the first of January 2025. But the 2024 budget had the provision for the main salary, wage award and the 13th month and we have implemented them. The salary has been paid. We should be having the wage award this week. And, by the 31st of this month, the 13th month salary would be paid. We have made provision for all of that. The governor added that the budget was presented to the House of Assembly in November, noting that the legislators spent six weeks to go through it. He continued, “The Assembly made it a priority that this budget was approved in the shortest possible time and, today, we are ready to sign it off. The entire process is just about three months. So, this is a testament that things work better and smoother where there is collaboration. “Since we assumed office in 2019, we have had continuous collaboration between the Executive and Legislature, which has become the envy of some. Where there is unity of purpose, things work harmoniously and that is the kind of relationship that exists among the three arms of government in Oyo State. We didn’t have to coerce anybody. We carry ourselves along and arrive at the same destination. “So, here in Oyo State, the Executive and Legislature are working harmoniously, because the leadership chose to put the people of Oyo State first. If they are looking for the secret to our continuous collaboration, it is just that simple. “That is why when people ask us how we have been able to go from about 30 to 35 per cent budget implementation by the previous administration to over 70 per cent, it is because we are talking across the entire spectrum of stakeholders. “So, I am hoping that, this year, we will move to 80 per cent implementation. “What this means is that once you have the road to your house in the budget, there is an 80 per cent chance that it will be implemented, and I think that is better than having 35 per cent. “Let me also use this opportunity to reassure our people. 2024 has been a tough year for all of us, but we cannot give up. As long as we have life, we will continue to push for reforms, policies and economic stability. This budget will play a key role in making these possible and I will solicit once again for continued support for this administration.” Governor Makinde also called on residents of the state to continue to support his administration, declaring that his government would continue to be transparent and open to engagements from the people of the state. “As a government, on our part, we will continue to be transparent and continue to emphasise that we can make mistakes, as we are not perfect. The issues people are not happy with, they should bring them to the table. Some people can be genuinely aggrieved but be bold enough to engage us. “We have not victimised anybody; even people that were laid off, we brought them in after reviewing their cases and felt they were unjustly treated. That is what your government should do for you.” Earlier in his remarks, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, said the upward review of the budget from N678 billion to N684 billion was a deliberate effort to accommodate emerging priorities and critical projects that will drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, … Read more

Stampede: Organisers Of Oyo Children Funfair Arrested, Says Makinde

December 18, 2024 by admin

Organisers of a children’s funfair where many were feared dead following a stampede on Wednesday, at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State capital, have been arrested. The state governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that the organisers are in custody as investigations continue to determine the cause of the stampede. He made this known in a statement he shared on his official X handle on Wednesday. Makinde said measures have been taken to prevent further death while sympathising with the victims and their families. The governor wrote, “Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries. This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths. “We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured. “While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.” He also assured the public that those responsible would face appropriate consequences. “I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident. “Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen,” he added. Earlier, many were feared dead while others were injured in a stampede that occurred during a children’s carnival. Though the state government did not reveal the identities of the organisers, findings revealed that the funfair was organised by the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat. On Tuesday, Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan on its Facebook handle announced that Ogunwusi, who is the founder of Women In Need Of Guidance and Support, was at the station ahead of her 2024 Children Fun Fair which was to be held today(Wednesday). The post reads, “Founder of Women In Need Of Guidance and Support, Her Majesty Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi in the Kunle Hamzat studio, ahead of her 2024 Children Fun Fair”. “Speaking during a special programme on Agidigbo FM, Queen Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunswusi is set to host 5,000 kids between the ages of 0-13 years across Ibadan for free under the aegis of (WINGS) foundation. “Olori Naomi Ogunwusi revealed that the event, scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Islamic High School Bashorun Ibadan, is strictly for children and they will win exciting prizes like scholarships and other bountiful gifts. “Olori Ogunwusi also assured parents and guardians of adequate security for all participants of the event.”

Makinde Promises Speedy Completion Of Ido-Eruwa Road, Flags Off Redevelopment Of Eruwa Farm Settlement

November 21, 2024 by admin

Adeleke Maria Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the upgrade of moribund 3,250 hectares Eruwa Farm Settlement to an Agribusiness Industrial Hub. The governor said that the project, once completed, would put Ibarapaland on the global agricultural map and create thousands of jobs for youths in the zone and across the state. Governor Makinde, who stated this on Thursday, at the Old Farm Settlement, Eruwa, Oyo State, added that his administration would also complete the Ido-Eruwa Road within the next one year, charging residents of Ibarapa zone to make investors feel welcome, when the new agribusiness hub is completed. He noted that the government recently approved the release of a tranche of N2 billion to the contractor handling the road project so as to fast-track its progress. According to the governor, the administration established the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) as a special purpose vehicle to drive agribusiness in the state and that so far, the state has achieved great successes and gone ahead to become a model for other states, and even some African countries, in the area of agribusiness He equally expressed the confidence that the new Agribusiness Hub in Eruwa would also be a success story like the Fasola Agribusiness Hub, as, according to him, development partners and investors, who have already committed to bringing in their money to the facility, were present at the ground-breaking ceremony. He said: “About five years ago, we started what I will call the journey to make agribusiness the driver of Oyo State’s economy. Immediately we came into office, we got access to a N7.6 billion loan facility taken by the previous administration and our plan was to use this loan to ensure that two of our moribund farm settlements are converted to agribusiness hubs. maintained that the Hub has seen an influx of 12 medium to large national and international private companies occupying the 1,150 hectares of land for crop production, livestock rearing, and processing for domestic consumption and export. He added that these companies have been contributing to supporting smallholder farmers in the state through training, taking their crops for processing and development of early generation seeds that will help yields across the state. In his special remarks, Director-General, Nigeria, African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Abdul Kamara, lauded Governor Makinde for resuscitating moribund farm settlements and putting the state on the path of agribusiness, which he described as consistent with AfDB’s approach to rural and economic transformation and aligns with its focus to feed Africa, guarantee food security, nutrition, agro-processing, agricultural transformations, industrialisation and improving the quality of lives for Africans. He assured that the AfDB would give its maximum support to the speedy execution of the project. In their separate goodwill messages, the Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation to the President of AfDB, Prof. Banji Oyeleran-Oyeyinka; the Olu of Igbooro, Oba Olajide Titiloye; and the chairman, Eruwa Council of Elders, Chief Joseph Peluola, severally appreciated Governor Makinde for seeing the future of agriculture sector and making the project a reality. They urged the governor to ensure the speedy completion of the Ido-Eruwa road and equally enhance microfinance banks to give financial support to more farmers. Delivering a vote of thanks, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, equally lauded Governor Makinde, noting that the Eruwa Agribusiness Industrial Hub would be a legacy project for him after his tenure. He also charged residents of the area to cooperate with the contractors for the success of the project. The event had in attendance former deputy governors of Oyo State, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi and Alhaji Hazim Gborlarumi; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sumonu; and Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Peter Ojedokun. Others were Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon Fola Oyekunle; chairman and co-chairman of the Oyo State Elder’s Council, Dr Kola Balogun and Elder Wole Oyelese; commissioners, traditional rulers and religious leaders, among others.

2027: Hon Segelu Supports Call On Makinde To Contest Presidency

November 7, 2024 by admin

A gubernatorial aspirant under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 elections, Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu has reiterated his support for the call on the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to vie for the presidential seat in 2027. According to Hon Segelu, Makinde represents a generational shift in Nigerian politics, resonating with the younger population. As one of Nigeria’s prominent PDP leaders, the Germany-based business tycoon, politician and IT professional, has established a nationwide network that could support a presidential bid. He said although Governor Makinde has not declared to partake in the 2027 presidential race, he is widely recognized for his commitment to public service and developmental governance in Southwest Nigeria. He further noted that it would be a significant milestone for the PDP, a party increasingly focused on youth-driven leadership and change, if Makinde decides to pursue higher office like the presidency in 2027. The governorship hopeful applauded the incumbent Oyo helmsman for generously donating a secretariat to the South West PDP. He said Makinde’s leadership in celebrating the contributions of past leaders dedicated to serving the people was laudable. “I would like to commend Governor Makinde on the recent commissioning of the South West PDP Party Secretariat, named in honour of the late Hon. Soji Adagunodo, a former Osun State Chairman and National Vice Chairman of our party. “It is gratifying to see that our amiable governor is fulfilling his honour the late South West Zonal Leader with a new edifice as the secretariat of the PDP in the southwestern zone of the country, for his contributions to the growth of the party,” Hon Segelu said. Son of a founding member of the PDP who was the first Executive Chairman of the Party in Oyo State gruesomely murdered by assassins, late Hon. Olusegun Moses Akintola Oladimeji, Hon Olayinka Segelu, noted that “His decision to dedicate this secretariat to Late Hon. Soji Adagunodo, known for his unwavering dedication to the PDP, is highly commendable. Naming this building after such a prominent leader honours Adagunodo’s memory and serves as a reminder of the values of service, loyalty, and commitment to the party’s mission. “The newly commissioned South West PDP Secretariat, with its modern infrastructure and strategic location, is a valuable asset for our party in the South West region. This initiative exemplifies Governor Makinde’s visionary approach to strengthening the PDP’s organizational framework and fostering unity. “By investing in this facility, Governor Makinde has established a dedicated space for collaboration, planning, and capacity-building among PDP leaders and members in the South West. His commitment to the growth and unity of our party is commendable.” Hon. Olayinka Segelu expressed confidence that Governor Makinde’s actions will inspire all party members to remain loyal, dedicated, and willing to make sacrifices for the PDP. “It’s crucial that we recognize and honor past leaders who dedicated themselves to the party’s ideals, fostering a culture of respect and continuity within the party. Late Hon. Adagunodo was indeed a bridge-builder whose legacy endured, and this monument stands as a testament to his greatness. The secretariat will undoubtedly enhance grassroots political engagement, unity, and growth within the PDP, a remarkable achievement made possible by Governor Seyi Makinde’s generosity,” he further remarked. Hon. Segelu encouraged all party members to fully utilize the resources available at the new secretariat to pave the way for a stronger future for the PDP.