Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents that the delivery of good governance in the state will not end with the conclusion of his tenure in May 2027, saying the team responsible for the progress recorded so far will continue the work.
The governor gave the assurance on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State.
Makinde said his administration had laid strong foundations for sustainable development and that the structures put in place would guide the state into its next phase of growth.
According to him, while he will personally exit office at the end of his tenure, the governance philosophy and team that have driven reforms and development across the state will remain active in different capacities.
The governor attributed his emergence in 2019, after several attempts, to divine grace, noting that the timing of his election symbolised a new beginning for the state.
He stressed that his leadership was not built on political godfatherism, but on faith, perseverance and the support of the people, adding that his administration has consistently sought to govern in line with God’s guidance and the collective interest of Oyo residents.
Makinde urged the people of the state not to allow the progress achieved over the years to be reversed, calling for unity, focus and continued commitment to good governance as Oyo celebrates its golden jubilee.
The thanksgiving service formed part of the week-long activities commemorating the state’s 50 years of existence. Other events include cultural exhibitions, public lectures, award ceremonies and social gatherings to reflect on the past and chart a path for the future.
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, who attended the event, commended Makinde’s leadership style and the transformation witnessed in the state.
Obi described Ibadan as a historic city of learning and progress, noting that Oyo State had experienced visible development under Makinde’s administration. He praised the governor for prudent management of public resources and commitment to the welfare of the people.
He also called on Nigerians to continually pray for political leaders, stressing that the country’s challenges were largely the result of leadership failures rather than lack of resources.
In his sermon, the Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, thanked God for the survival and growth of Oyo State over the past five decades. He acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and applauded the current administration for its people-focused policies.
Special prayers were offered for the governor, the state, its past leaders and the nation, with a call for peaceful succession and continuity of development.
Several dignitaries attended the service, including the governor’s wife, Tamunominini Makinde; the wife of the Osun State governor, Titilola Adeleke; former First Lady of Oyo State, Mutiat Ladoja; senior judicial officers, top government officials and members of the anniversary planning committee.
