The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Seyi Makinde

  • On Oyo Government House renovation plan

    On Oyo Government House renovation plan

    • By Adisa Atolagbe

    Sir: Governor Seyi Makinde’s proposed N63.4 billion renovation of the Oyo State Government House has ignited a wave of public backlash and provoked intense scrutiny of governance priorities. Coming into government in 2019 and projecting itself as a progressive administration committed to people-centered policies, Makinde’s administration, already faced with land grabbing allegations, now confronts accusations of misplaced priorities and governance detachment.

    Oyo State, with its rich cultural legacy and strategic geographical position, remains stifled by systemic underdevelopment. A significant portion of its rural and peri-urban populations live without access to quality education, potable water, functional healthcare, or reliable infrastructure. The road networks in agrarian zones like Ibarapa and Oke Ogun and Ibadan, less city local government areas are dilapidated, cutting off farmers from markets and stifling economic activities. Primary healthcare centers are often under-resourced, and public schools remain decrepit, overcrowded and underfunded.

    Despite these deficits, the state possesses considerable economic potential. A logical policy approach would allocate state resources toward scalable, grassroots initiatives to increase food production, stimulate agro-allied industry to reduce rural employment, including providing basic amenities. Instead, the N63.4 billion allocated for executive luxury risks widening existing disparities.

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    The scale of the proposed renovation—not merely its cost—is emblematic of administrative tone-deafness. Oyo State’s poverty incidence surpasses 40%, and basic public services are in disrepair. The allocation of N63.4 billion to a largely symbolic structure is indefensible under such conditions. It is estimated that this amount could fund 640 well-equipped primary health centers or provide vocational training and grants to tens of thousands of youths and women.

    Comparatively, the figure overshadows several years’ worth of education and healthcare budgets, underscoring the disproportionality of the proposed spending. There has been no public disclosure of structural deficiencies that justify this scale of renovation. If renovation of government house will cost N63.4 billion, how much will constructing a new one cost? Thus, the project not only appears extravagant and wasteful but fundamentally disconnected from the lived realities of the state’s population.

    Good governance is characterized by transparency, responsiveness, and the ethical deployment of public resources. A central ethical concern in this case is the prioritization of luxury for a political elite over public welfare. There is no public evidence of stakeholder consultations, feasibility studies, or community needs assessments to support the project.

    Furthermore, the decision raises critical ethical questions about empathy and accountability in public leadership. A government house is primarily a symbol of executive power—not a developmental necessity. In a democracy, optics matter. Renovating an already functional Government House amid widespread poverty sends a message of elite insularity and administrative hubris.

    This controversy may mark a turning point in Makinde’s political legacy. Unless reversed, the renovation could define his administration as a government that loves to indulge in fiscal indulgence.

    The proposed N63.4 billion Government House renovation stands as a cautionary tale of how political symbolism can eclipse developmental urgency. It exposes the chasm between executive choices and the existential struggles of citizens. Governor Makinde’s reputation is at risk of forever being eclipsed by this decision and some recent ones that, by many metrics, symbolizes elite detachment and administrative myopia.

    True governance legacy lies not in architectural grandeur but in measurable improvements in human capital, welfare, and opportunity. A redirection of the N63.4 billion toward education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure would produce ripple effects of development and restore public confidence in governance.

    The administration should halt the renovation project or at the very least scale it down considerably and prioritize the welfare of the people rather than cosmetic projects that have no public value. Citizens should have a say in how their resources are allocated. By listening to the people, the government can rediscover its moral compass—and perhaps, its mandate.

    •Adisa Atolagbe,

     Ibadan, Oyo State.

  • APC slams Makinde for proposing N63.5 billion to renovate Oyo Govt House

    APC slams Makinde for proposing N63.5 billion to renovate Oyo Govt House

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde over his administration’s decision to spend N63.5 billion on the renovation of the Agodi Government House, describing the move as wasteful and insensitive.

    In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC condemned the approval, stating it reflects a level of profligacy and disregard for the economic realities facing the state.

    The Oyo State Executive Council had last Wednesday announced the approval of N63.5 billion for a comprehensive overhaul of Government House structures, alongside N132 million for the hiring of professional gardeners to maintain green areas and other parts of the governor’s residence.

    An additional N14.3 billion was also approved for the purchase of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) for the Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan.

    Sadare accused Governor Makinde of treating the people of Oyo State with disdain, adding that instead of addressing pressing developmental issues, the governor was justifying the spending spree by proposing the purchase of two aircraft to purportedly monitor criminal activities from the air.

    Sadare said, “We watched keenly as concerned individuals and groups across the globe condemned the decision of Gov. Makinde to record another ugly stride in his penchant for financial recklessness and wasting of public funds through the payment of huge sums on white elephant projects and misplaced priorities.

    “Interestingly, most of those who did not take us seriously when we raised the alarm on the production of 212,505 copies of exercise books for public school pupils at the rate of N2100 per copy in 2019 are now the leading voices against the same Gov. Makinde.

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    “To make the matter, Gov. Makinde failed to justify the decision to expend so many billions on the renovation of structures which had been built to last for decades, several years ago and renovated to taste by the immediate past administration of the ever-neat and classy Senator Abiola Ajimobi in 2017.

    “All that played out in Gov. Makinde’s official address to the state lawmakers at the Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday was a futile attempt to cover up a case of brazen corruption and impunity.

    “At the same time, Gov. Makinde has a lot to tell the world about a criminal case of contract splitting which has been established in the ongoing upgrade of Alakia Airport because he has not explained why he had to release another N10billion and now N14.3billion for the same project estimated to gulp N14.3billion to complete and after full payment had been made, the governor keeps making fresh budget as extra billions are being paid by the state government.”

  • Exchange rate accounts for N63.4b approval for Oyo govt house overhauling, reconstruction-Makinde

    Exchange rate accounts for N63.4b approval for Oyo govt house overhauling, reconstruction-Makinde

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state on Friday said fluctuating exchange rate accounts for the N63.4billion approved for the overhauling and reconstruction of the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

    Makinde who observed that he has been trending on the social media for the wrong reason since the news of the approval hit the airwaves noted that, items required for construction and cost are hugely determined by forces beyond his control.

    Noting that, he has shown prudence in managing the state resources since his assumption of office, the governor said he would continue to do whatever is right for the state but would continue to evaluate his position, to be sure no wrong decision was taken, and make necessary corrections, as situation may demand.

    Makinde spoke while delivering a State of the State address to celebrate the 2nd year anniversary of the inauguration of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly at the hallowed chamber.

    The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade had on Wednesday dropped the hint of the approval of N63,479,858,000 for the overhauling of the structures of the Government House.

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    Noting that the approval was given during the State Executive Council meeting, Oyelade had described the current state and ambience of the Government House as an embarrassment and unbefitting facility.

    The approval has however generated controversies among the stakeholders, particularly on the aocial media, with many people saying the estimated amount for the project is on the high side.

    Addressing the lawmakers and other stakeholders on Friday, Governor Makinde who drew a comparative analysis on the impact of the fluctuating exchange rate explained that the cost of servicing debt inherited from the previous administration has multiplied till date.

    He added that the state is currently grappling with a steep increase in its foreign debt repayment obligations to the WorldBank, which have increased from N70billion to about N320billion, due to exchange rate volatility.

    Makinde who traced the root of the debt to a $200 million loan obtained from the World Bank during the administration of his predecessor, disclosed that at the time the loan was secured, the exchange rate stood at N350 to a dollar, bringing its naira equivalent to approximately N70 billion.

    He said, “We have been trending for the wrong reasons, where people said we want to spend N63bn to upgrade or renovate the Government House. Well, those people on the social media, they are not from Oyo State. They don’t know what we are talking about. My answers to them is just to cast our attention to one thing and one thing alone.

    “Before I came into office, the previous administration took a loan from the World Bank worth $200million USD, for the Ibadan Urban Flood Project. As of the time I came in in May 29, 2019, that dollr denominated loan was in the book of Oyo state as N70billion because dollars to Naira at the time was around N350 to a dollar. And we were paying about N700million every month to service that loan.

    “We finished the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project, its all done. Before I came in, $100million has been spent. $50million USD committed and this administration was supposed to spend $50million USD to compete the project.

    “But we didn’t spend that amount. After meeting all the commitments made by the previous administration, we returned $18million USD to the WorldBank, which we didnt spend. That is to show how we have managed projects prudently in Oyo state.

    “But, that is not where I am going, my point is, in May 29, 2019, in Oyo state books, that loan that we had at N70billion as what Oyo State was owing, now fast forward till today, the project is completed without adding one inch of drainage to the project, just simply by exchange rate movements, Oyo State today is owing N320billion.

    “Oyo State is owing N320billion because that N70billion calculated at N350 to a Dollar is now the same about but calculated about N1,540, that is our reality.

    “And we have now moved from paying N700million monthly when I came in in 2019 to paying N3billion monthly now, to service that loan. But, can we sleep when it’s raining? Yes. Because Ibadan Urban Flood has basically tamed the likelihood of any flooding, we have an advanced warning system installed already.

    “But, my point is, to manage our exchange rate is not for me to determine in Oyo State, it is on the exclusive list. It is the Federal Government that has the responsibility to manage our exchange rate. But, whatever is it, we operate within Nigeria and we will do what is in the best interest of our state

  • Diaspora group commiserates with Makinde over death of ex-Nigerian High Commissioner

    Diaspora group commiserates with Makinde over death of ex-Nigerian High Commissioner

    The Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID) has commiserated with Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State Elders’ Council, the immediate family, and the entire Oyo state over the death of former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Malawi Ibironke Adefope 

    Adefope, a member of Oyo State Elders’ Council, died at 73. 

    OID described Adefope as an inspiration, a civil rights champion, and a legend, who left a fundamental footprint on Oyo State and Nigerian politics. 

    A statement by spokesperson for OID, Barr. Ayotomiwa Adebayo said the deceased was a beacon of leadership and a significant central figure in good governance whose enormous contribution to Oyo State political landscape and the return of democracy to Nigeria cannot be overemphasized.

    “Mama Adefope can best be described as a philanthropist and a champion of the underprivileged. She showed incredible kindness to those who needed it and sacrificed everything to create opportunities for the underrepresented groups.     

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    “Our mother lived a fulfilled life through selfless service to humanity and had a huge impact on our public life. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of high standards, meritorious and unyielding excellence in service to the people, country, and beyond. 

    “Ambassador Adefope served the country and State she truly loved as former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Malawi, as well as a member of the Oyo State Elders’ Council and Advisory Council. She will be dearly missed by many.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Oyo State government, the good people of the State, her immediate family, and associates. 

    “We pray to God Almighty to grant her family and everyone touched by Mama’s demise the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. 

    “Mama has indeed fought a good fight, run the race, finished the course, and has gone to be with the Lord. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

  • Saraki, PDP reconciliation committee meet Makinde

    Saraki, PDP reconciliation committee meet Makinde

    In a bid  reconcile the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) reconciliation committee on Monday night met with Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde.

    The committee led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki met with the Governor behind closed doors.

    Although, the details of the meeting remain sketchy as of the time of this report, it was gathered it was the second time the Committee would be meeting with Makinde’ in Ibadan.

    Unconfirmed sources said, the meeting was aimed at seeking the opinion of Makinde on how to resolve the crisis bedeviling the party, particularly ahead of the forthcoming convention of the party

    “The party will soon hold its convention in Kano. There is need to bring all the warring factions together under one umbrella.

    “As we all know, Makinde is a major factor to be reckoned with in the party, hence the need to always carrying him along.

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    “Even though we were not privy to their discussion since it was held privately, it might not be unconnected with the resolve of the Committee to end the crisis in the party,” he stated. 

    Saraki confirmed the meeting with Makinde on his Facebook page.

    He wrote: “Thank you, Your Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for making time to meet with us today-even though it coincided with your wife’s birthday.

    “Warm wishes to Her Excellency Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde.

    “Following today’s meeting, we remain cautiously optimistic as we forge ahead to secure a common position among the leadership of our great party”

  • Makinde reappoints Aderibigbe, others into civil service commission, advisory council

    Makinde reappoints Aderibigbe, others into civil service commission, advisory council

    Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reappointed Alhaji Aderibigbe Kamoru Abiodun as chairman of the Oyo State Civil Service Commission.

    The governor also reappointed the trio of Alhaji Kolajo Isiaq Adewale, Mr Olutoyin Adedeji Akanmu and Chief Ogunjimi Solomon Oluwole as full-time and part-time members of the commission respectively.

    The governor  also appointed Pastor Taiwo Oluwagbemiro and Oladimeji Oladapo as part-time members of the civil service commission.

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    A letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, indicated that the governor has equally appointed a former Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, Alhaji Rasaki Gbadegesin, and the immediate past chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Pastor Akinade Alamu, as members of the Oyo State Advisory Council.

  • Governing Council seeks govt’s intervention over bad roads

    Governing Council seeks govt’s intervention over bad roads

    The Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State has sought intervention of the Federal Government and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over poor access roads preventing relocation of the institution to its permanent site.

    It lamented that despite completion of major facilities at the institution’s permanent site, students and workers were unable to access them due to deplorable road conditions.

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    Speaking during an inspection visit to the institution’s Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (CSAED) at Onipaanu in Surulere Local Government of Oyo State, the Chairman of the council, Yakubu Dati, said lack of good roads from Idi Araba, Oolo and Odo-Oba axes remained an obstacle to movement of the institution to its permanent site at Ayede in Ogo-Oluwa Local Government.

    He said: “We are appealing to the Federal Government, and we, as council members, will also use our networks and contacts to reach out to stakeholders to assist with building of roads to the permanent site. We have been there and we are impressed with the facilities provided there.”

  • Torch of Unity: Makinde asserts Oyo’s  devotion to youth dev’t ahead of Ogun 2024

    Torch of Unity: Makinde asserts Oyo’s  devotion to youth dev’t ahead of Ogun 2024

    Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured that his administration would remain steadfast in its commitment to supporting youths and sports development at all levels through the provision of adequate infrastructure, training facilities, and conducive environment in the state.

    This governor stated this yesterday  while receiving the Torch of Unity, which signals the commencement of the 22nd  National Sports Festival, tagged  Gateway Games Ogun 2024, noting that his administration would continue to promote youth engagement and healthy competition through sports.

    Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, received the representative of the National Sports Council, Mrs Ekeana Ibora and collected the Torch at the entrance of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

    The Sports Festival is scheduled to take place between May 16th  and May 30th .

    According to the governor, receiving the Torch of Unity in Oyo State was an honour and a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to national cohesion and shared progress.

    Addressing the officials and the athletes of Oyo State, the governor stressed that the Torch of Unity is more than a ceremonial emblem, stressing that it is a powerful symbol of peace, unity and brotherhood across the 36 States of the federation.

    While encouraging the state athletes to uphold the values of sportsmanship and integrity and be exemplary representatives, both on and off the field, Governor Makinde said the government would recognise and reward athletes and officials, who bring honour to the state.

    He said: “I bring felicitation from the government and the good people of Oyo State. It is with great excitement that I welcome you all to this occasion, which is the reception of the Torch of Unity, a significant symbol of the commencement of Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival.

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    “The Torch of Unity is more than a ceremonial emblem; it is a powerful symbol of peace, unity and brotherhood across the 36 states of our great country.”

    He continued: “Receiving this torch here in Oyo State is not just an honour; it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national cohesion and shared progress.”

    “I am happy to be part of this momentous event, which serves as a platform for the promotion of socio-cultural integration, hereby reinforcing the ideals of national unity.

    “Youth engagement and healthy competition are values that Oyo State holds dearly. And, as we prepare for the festival, I urge our athletes to represent Oyo State with passion, discipline and excellence.

    “Please go beyond participation by also aiming to bring glory to our beloved state. I assure you that this administration remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting sports development at all levels through the provision of adequate infrastructure, training facilities and conducive environment.

    “At this juncture, I want to assure you that this government will continue to recognise and reward those who bring pride and honour to our state,” he added.

  • Makinde hails Afenifere leader, Fasoranti, at 99

    Makinde hails Afenifere leader, Fasoranti, at 99

    Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, has felicitated the leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on his 99th birthday.

    Makinde, who hailed Fasoranti for his contributions to the emancipation of the Yoruba ethnic group and the progress of Nigeria, prayed to God to grant his lifelong desires on the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.

    According to Makinde, Pa Fasoranti has, for decades, continued to stand tall as a leader, role model, and father, thus, he deserves to be celebrated.

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    He said: “On behalf of the Government and the good People of Oyo State, I felicitate Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, Leader of the pan-Yoruba Sociopolitical Organisation, Afenifere, on the occasion of his 99th birthday.

    “Baba, we celebrate your exemplary life of service to the Yoruba Ethnic Group and your immense contributions to nation-building over the years.

    “As you clock 99, it is our prayer that God grants all your heart desires on Yoruba emancipation and the continued progress and well-being of the South-West and Nigeria as a whole. Happy Birthday, Sir.”

  • Makinde swaps commissioners

    Makinde swaps commissioners

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde yesterday announced reshuffling of his executive council (exco).

    The governor made this known in a letter signed by his Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.

    According to the letter, the reshuffle will see the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Seun Ashamu, move to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, while the current Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, will move to the Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure and Transport.

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    Commissioner for Public Works, Prof. Dahud Shangodoyin, has been moved to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

    Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Solihu Adelabu, has been moved to the Ministry of Establishments and Training, while the current Commissioner for Establishments, Segun Olayiwola, will now man the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.