GOVERNOR SEYI MAKINDE EMPHASIZES INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTH FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE IN OYO STATE

POLITICS - Posted on: 12th Nov. 2024 at 12:06AM
By Gbemisola Onigbanjo


Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reiterated his commitment to building strong institutions as the foundation for sustainable governance, accountability, and economic development in the state. Speaking to reporters in Ibadan, the governor highlighted that establishing robust systems is essential to ensuring good governance, regardless of future leadership changes.

In his five years in office, Makinde has implemented significant projects across various sectors, notably infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. His administration has prioritized road construction, including major projects like the 76km Alao-Akala Highway, the 65km Moniya-Ijaiye-Ibadan Road, and the ongoing 110km Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. These developments have not only improved transportation and connectivity within the state but have also generated jobs and boosted economic activity.

Makinde’s impact on the education sector is evident in the upgrading of the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education to a university, which now hosts a Faculty of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources in Iseyin. Additionally, Oyo State’s sole ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) has facilitated significant renovations to the institution, elevating its standards and infrastructure.

The healthcare sector has also benefited from Makinde’s reforms, with the renovation and equipping of 264 Primary Health Centres and several General Hospitals, increasing access to quality healthcare services for Oyo State residents.

To address security challenges, Makinde established the Amotekun security outfit and initiated a Forest Rangers unit aimed at preventing bandit activities. His administration also set up an anti-corruption agency to strengthen transparency and reduce corruption within the state. “Before we came in, there was no Amotekun. Now I am wearing Amotekun’s cap right now,” he remarked, emphasizing the agency’s role in improving security.

One of Makinde’s notable achievements includes the construction of a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility at Ibadan Airport, an effort aimed at upgrading the airport to international standards. The state government is also extending the airport’s runway, despite it being a federal facility, to improve regional air travel.

Makinde’s journey to becoming governor was marked by persistence, having faced multiple setbacks in previous elections. Despite losing bids for the Oyo South Senatorial seat in 2007 and the 2011 PDP senatorial primary, as well as a gubernatorial bid in 2015, he remained committed to his vision for Oyo State. His perseverance paid off in 2019 when he won the PDP’s primary and subsequently the governorship.

Reflecting on his election, Makinde stated, “Oyo people took a decision in 2019. We did not have a godfather. Nobody sponsored me. Nobody gave a dime for us to get in there.” His administration’s achievements have earned him praise as a leader focused on tangible progress and institutional strength, a legacy he aims to leave for future administrations.

Under Makinde’s leadership, Oyo State has seen a transformation driven by transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law. His administration’s commitment to these principles has fostered an environment conducive to economic growth, social justice, and human development. “We want to be remembered for the institutions that we’re trying to build, such that good governance will be guaranteed in Oyo State,” he emphasized.

Governor Makinde’s focus on institutional resilience and accountability has positioned him as a model for effective governance, with Oyo State citizens benefiting from his administration’s enduring impact on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.

Posted by: Emdee David

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