Since assuming office in May 2019, Governor Seyi Makinde has led Oyo State through a historic journey of growth, reforms, and transformation.
His administration, structured under the Omituntun agenda—Omituntun 1.0 (2019–2023) and the ongoing Omituntun 2.0 (2023–2027)—has redefined governance in the state with a clear focus on infrastructure, education, economic development, civil service welfare, and inclusive leadership.
Putting People First: Welfare of Civil Servants and Pensioners
From the outset, Governor Makinde declared that the welfare of the people, especially civil servants and pensioners, would be a priority—and he has delivered on that promise.
Civil servants in Oyo State enjoy the highest minimum wage in Nigeria, with the recent approval of ₦80,000 in 2025, far above the federal benchmark. Promotions have been consistent and merit-based. Additionally, workers receive their salaries promptly on the 25th of every month, a trend that earned the governor admiration as a “promise keeper.”
To cushion the harsh economic realities, the Makinde administration implemented wage awards: ₦25,000 for workers and ₦15,000 for pensioners. Pensioners have also seen an upward review in their monthly take-home, with the introduction of a ₦25,000 minimum pension and a 33% increment across board.
Furthermore, Governor Makinde has institutionalized the 13th-month salary, which has been paid consistently every December since he took office. Pensioners also receive Christmas bonuses, reinforcing his reputation as their “golden son.”
Rebuilding Oyo: Roads, Power, and Infrastructure
Governor Makinde’s infrastructural blueprint has revolutionized Oyo State’s physical landscape. Over 335 kilometers of strategic roads have been constructed or rehabilitated, facilitating intra- and inter-zonal connectivity. These include the Moniya-Iseyin Road, Ogbomoso-Fapote-Iseyin Road, and the Ibadan Circular Road project.
In 2024, the governor commissioned an 11MW Hybrid Power Plant in Ibadan, the first of its kind in the state, with plans to scale it to 100MW using solar energy. This independent power project is designed to power government facilities and public infrastructure, reducing dependence on the national grid and boosting efficiency.
Agribusiness: Revitalizing Agriculture and Rural Economies
Governor Makinde has positioned agribusiness as a cornerstone of Oyo State’s economic development. His administration has attracted over ₦27 billion in private investments into the sector over the past years, leveraging public-private partnerships to modernize agriculture and create jobs.
Key initiatives include:
Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA): The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), under the visionary leadership of Dr. Debo Akande, has become a cornerstone of agricultural transformation in Oyo State— facilitating major agribusiness investments, empowering youth, driving youth empowerment, industrial-scale farming, and strategic partnerships that are positioning the state as a leading agribusiness hub in Nigeria. OYSADA has been instrumental in developing strategies to transform moribund farm settlements into vibrant agribusiness centers.
Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub: Revived and designated as Nigeria’s first Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, focusing on early-generation seed farming and livestock development in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI).
Eruwa Agribusiness Hub: A project of over 3,200-hectare transforming the Eruwa Farm Settlement into a modern agribusiness zone, featuring crop and livestock production, processing centers, and training facilities. The hub aims to create thousands of jobs and attract significant investment.
Youth Empowerment: Through programs like the Youth Employment in Agribusiness and Sustainable Agriculture project (YEAP), the state trained thousands of youth in modern farming techniques, providing them with starter packs and access to credit facilities.
Infrastructure Development: The administration has invested in rural road networks to facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, enhancing market access for farmers.
These initiatives have not only boosted agricultural productivity but also revitalized rural economies, positioning Oyo State as a leader in agribusiness in Nigeria.
Reforming Education: A Legacy of Stability and Access
Oyo State’s education sector has undergone a remarkable transformation under Governor Makinde’s leadership. His acquisition of sole ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) ended decades of joint management issues with Osun State, ushering in a new era of stability and growth for the institution.
To expand access to tertiary education, a new LAUTECH campus was established in Iseyin. Additionally, the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education was upgraded to the University of Education, making Oyo State home to multiple degree-awarding institutions focused on teacher development and research.
One of the most notable achievements in the education sector is the end of incessant strikes that had plagued tertiary institutions. Oyo’s higher institutions now operate on stable academic calendars, ensuring students graduate on time.
Culture and Tourism: Promoting Heritage, Attracting the World
Recognizing the potential of tourism as a revenue driver, Governor Makinde created a dedicated Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The ministry has aggressively promoted traditional festivals such as the Egungun Festival, Sango Festival, the Igboora Twins Festival and other cultural events in the state. These efforts have drawn the attention of international bodies, with UNESCO already engaging with the state for possible heritage recognition.
The enhanced visibility of these festivals not only boosts tourism but also preserves the rich cultural identity of the Yoruba people.
Upgrading Transport Systems: Modern Mobility for a Growing State
Transportation in Oyo State has seen a massive overhaul. The administration introduced new luxury buses for intra-city and inter-city travel, improving mobility and comfort for residents.
Ultra-modern bus terminals have been constructed at Ojoo and Challenge in Ibadan and are already operational. The terminals at Iwo Road and Old Ife Road are nearing completion. These projects are central to the government’s drive to decongest traffic and modernize the public transportation system.
Meanwhile, the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to international standard continues to receive attention, with infrastructure works progressing steadily and regulatory agencies partnering with the state government.
Economic Growth: Boosting IGR and Supporting Businesses
The Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Oyo State has increased by over ₦145.5% billion since Governor Makinde took office, a testament to improved fiscal management and economic planning. The state government has also outlined new regulations for the hospitality sector to further boost revenue while maintaining standards.
The administration has provided support for MSMEs, farmers, and artisans through grants, soft loans, and empowerment programs, helping many residents withstand the shocks of a challenging economy.
Prioritizing Security: Safe Oyo is a Productive Oyo
Under Governor Makinde, Oyo State has emerged as one of the more secure states in Nigeria. The establishment of the Amotekun Corps as a state-backed security outfit has strengthened community policing. The corps operates with modern patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, and operational support.
A toll-free emergency number, 615, was also introduced to allow citizens report crimes or security issues quickly. The state has continued to support federal security agencies with vehicles and logistics, ensuring a coordinated approach to safety.
Employment
One of the major hallmarks of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is the massive employment of over 20,000 youths into the civil service, teaching sector, and other public institutions in Oyo State. This includes recruitment under:
Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB)
Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM)
Civil Service Commission
Health Care
Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA)
Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps)
And many more
This makes Governor Makinde the highest youth employer in the state’s history, a feat accomplished through transparent recruitment processes that prioritize merit and equity.
Healthcare Delivery: Accessible and Functional PHCs
Governor Makinde’s administration has refurbished and equipped over 270 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) across the 351 wards in Oyo State. This has brought basic healthcare services closer to rural communities and decongested secondary healthcare facilities.
General hospitals, including those in Aremo and Saki, have been rehabilitated, equipped with modern medical tools, and staffed with competent personnel. The government has also partnered with international donors to provide maternal and child health services.
Inclusive Governance: Everyone Has a Voice
One of the hallmarks of Governor Makinde’s leadership is his commitment to inclusive governance. From traditional rulers and religious leaders to students and artisans, every group has been engaged and given a voice in policymaking. Appointments reflect ethnic, gender, and generational balance, reinforcing the idea that Oyo State belongs to all.
At six impactful years, Governor Seyi Makinde stands tall as a visionary leader who has turned promises into projects and slogans into sustainable systems. With two more years to go in Omituntun 2.0, the foundation he has laid promises a brighter, more prosperous, and inclusive Oyo State.
As Oyo State Citizens, residents and Nigerians as a whole look ahead to 2027, the question on many lips is not whether Seyi Makinde has delivered, but whether the standard he has set can be matched.
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