Makinde’s Preparedness Key to Oyo’s Success, Says Ex-Minister Akande

IBADAN, OYO STATE – Former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr (Mrs) Onikepo Akande, has lauded Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s administration in Oyo State, attributing its significant achievements to the governor’s thorough preparation before assuming office.

Speaking in an interview, the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland highlighted the pivotal role of Governor Makinde’s campaign documents – the “Oyo State Roadmap to Accelerated Development 2019-2023” and the subsequent “Oyo State Roadmap to Sustainable Development 2023-2027” – as the foundational blueprints for his governance.

“Makinde is a performing governor who came prepared and continues to serve the people with humility, integrity, and transparency,” stated Dr. Akande, who also served as the former President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

She commended Governor Makinde’s inclusive approach to governance, noting the equitable distribution of physical and public works across all zones of the state. “How Governor Makinde has spread physical and public works across all the zones of the state is absolutely laudable. He carries every stakeholder along, including traditional rulers, women, and other interest groups, especially people living with disabilities,” she affirmed.

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Dr. Akande further emphasized the governor’s commitment to the welfare of workers and pensioners, which she believes has significantly boosted the purchasing power of the populace. “He is the people’s governor. He is running an inclusive government. I am particularly impressed by the way he has stood out in terms of workers’ and pensioners’ welfare, which has in turn boosted the people’s purchasing power. He is a highly performing governor and a people-oriented governor,” she added.

Highlighting the positive impact on the state’s economy, the former minister pointed to Oyo State’s improved Value Added Tax (VAT) contribution, ranking second only to Lagos according to Nairametrics. She also noted the remarkable growth in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N1.8 billion in 2019 to N6 billion in 2024. Furthermore, she praised the transformation of the Fasola Farm Estate into an industrial hub, recognizing industrialization as crucial for economic development, employment generation, and poverty alleviation, a perspective informed by her experience as a former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.

Dr. Akande urged Governor Makinde to remain steadfast in his commitment, assuring him that his legacy is secure. “Governor Seyi Makinde is a transformational achiever whose life has been that of service and honour. He has touched many lives, including mine, in many positive ways. I congratulate him,” she concluded.

The Olori of Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande echoed these sentiments, stating simply, “Governor ‘Seyi Makinde is doing extremely well,” after acknowledging his achievements across various sectors.