Leadership is an act of responsibility and may not necessarily be for the smartest person but for those who sacrifice, have good vision, are accessible and understand the limitations of people they serve. William Shakespeare’s word can best described Governor Makinde’s rising profile in Nigeria politics that “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.

It is instructive to note that the rave of the moment, Governor Seyi Makinde popularly called GSM (God Sent Man) by his teeming supporters, was neither born with a silver spoon nor put in a situation that required greatness to succeed but achieved greatness through diligence, hard work, sacrifice, passion for people and willingness to serve mankind.

Governor Makinde’s humble beginning and self-determination motivated him to break all barriers that came his way both in his private business and public service. As a philanthropist, Governor Makinde’s kind hearted and act of generosity put him above other affluent Nigerians. He serves the people meritoriously to make a difference in the society.

He is a shrewd businessman par excellence whose leadership qualities have endeared him to many in the business world before dabbling into politics for the upliftment of the masses. Governor Makinde’s ambition to venture into politics especially in Nigeria where politics is viewed as ‘a dirty game’ was borne out of passion and commitment to give back and serve the people of who have suffered from bad governance and lost hope in the establishments.

Without a doubt, the entrance into politics of the ‘star boy’ as the Governor being referred to by well-meaning Nigerians was not smooth because he had made three attempts to be in public office but his persistence and love for the liberation of the oppressed and downtrodden fueled his burning desire and surmounted all the challenges he encountered in the process.

Governor Makinde’s relentless efforts eventually paid off when the good people of Oyo State finally rewarded his friendly and ‘SMART’ manifesto with their massive votes as he emerged as the Executive Governor of the State. With his preparedness to govern successfully, Governor Makinde swung into action from day one after being sworn in and commenced the much-expected work of good governance for the betterment of the people.

His infrastructure revolution which has brought sustainable development, transformation and economic growth in Oyo State is unprecedented. His monumental developmental projects are all over the place for attestation to his giant strides objectively.
In addition, as a great leader with the wish to realise his vision and discharge his duties dispassionately, Governor Makinde’s accomplishments in education, agriculture, economy, health, security, tourism, youths and sports development in over two years in the office have shown how a true leader should lead.
Also, based on his people-centered policies, all zones across the State are enjoying dividend of democracy irrespective of political affiliation. Youths, farmers, civil servants, pensioners, students, artisans, market men and women et al are not left behind as well.

His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde understands the true test of a leader which has helped him to succeed where past administrations have failed woefully. It is on record that before his emergence as Governor of Oyo State, some naysayers and doubting Thomases who did not believe Governor Makinde would win election as he has never held political office have predicted his failure. Alas! They are eating their words, as his victory at the polls was the turning point of a new era in Oyo State. Now, Governor Makinde has become a force to reckon with and a great leader to turn when some nuggets of brilliancy for successful leadership are required.

The leadership ‘transformational’ energy of passion to serve mankind flows through Governor Seyi Makinde’s mind, heart and body effortlessly. Governor Makinde has proven time and time again that good governance is not a rocket science. It involves understanding the people’s plight and bring succour to them seamlessly. As a result, his effort to change things positively and achieve greatness is worthy of emulation.

It is generally believed that in adolescent we serve to receive. In youth we serve ourselves and in maturity, we serve to bring value to others. This notion really demonstrates the rationale behind Governor Makinde’s uncommon service to the people of Oyo State in contrast to most of our leaders whose main motive in public service is to enrich themselves and impoverish their people.
As a true leader, Governor Makinde does not play politics of acrimony and bitterness unlike some political leaders in Nigeria. His healthy style of politics has been commended by all lovers of democracy including the opposition parties. He believes in the development of his State and unity of Nigeria. He does not see politics as a do or die affairs but a call to serve.

He has demonstrated that an exceptional leader must lead by example both in words and in actions to gain the trust and confidence of the citizens. He is smart to realise that absence and failure of good governance causes distrust, mistrust and lack of confidence in Government. As a result, he operates an open-door policy, accountability and transparency so that the citizens can continue the hope they have in his administration.

Governor Makinde as an effective leader does not think he knows it all. He listens and seeks advice where necessary to get inspired to make informed decisions while selfish and power-hungry leaders think they know it all. His sterling leadership qualities are apparent in all aspects of governance. His mantra, from ‘poverty to prosperity’ is gaining momentum across the State as he has tackled the root cause of poverty.

Ask me of an outstanding leader and I will show you one in the person of Governor Seyi Makinde whose integrity, honesty, character and selfless service to humanity and mankind have been a source of inspiration to the young and old both home and in the diaspora. The Governor as a person is humble, modest and remain committed to the development of the Pacesetter State. The people’s Governor is too focused and determined on service delivery to the people of Oyo State and cannot be caught up in the euphoria of fame.

Governor Makinde has gained immense popularity among the people and become a role model to many as his achievements will stand a test of time. He is indeed a shining light as well as a beacon of hope for a better and prosperous Nigeria.

 – Jamiu Akano