Makinde Determined to Position Oyo as West Africa’s Investment Hub
By Adewale Owoade
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his government’s commitment to making Oyo State the premier investment destination in West Africa.
Gov Makinde stated this during his state of the state address at a special plenary in commemoration of 2nd anniversary of the 10th Oyo Assembly, held at the Secretariat, Ibadan.
He noted that intensive production, skill and knowledge are needed to attain economy prosperity, adding that relying on natural resources alone cannot guarantee prosperity.
He added that first phase of the ongoing upgrading of Ladoke Akintola Airport to international standard would be completed in October to grow economy of the state through airlifting and cargo operations.
“The heart of our economic agenda is our determination to position Oyo State as the premier investment destination in West Africa.
“Over the last year, we achieved several landmarks milestone that underscore the situation, we deepen our commitment to agriculture as a business not just a development activity.
“We did this through local and international partnership with the private sector, other sub nationals, development organisations, and even other countries.
On the security situation, Makinde revealed that the government had concluded plans to procure two aircraft for aerial surveillance and security operations.
In his address, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, declared that the 10th Assembly has firmly established itself as a dynamic and people-focused institution.
He noted that the house being proactive passed 32 bills which span through education, health, economy, security, environment, infrastructure, social welfare and governance.
“Today, we stand not merely to celebrate the passage of time, but to reflect on our journey, our trials, triumphs, and testimony as a truly people-driven legislative Institution.
“As we pause to reflect on our journey so far, we do so with pride and humility, acknowledging our shared commitment to the ideals of democracy, transparency, and good governance.
“In the last two years, this Assembly has remained proactive, people-driven and result-oriented. We have passed thirty-two (32) out of 34 bills, with the remaining two at Committee stage undergoing critical scrutiny.
“These bills span essential sectors including education, health, economy, security, environment. Infrastructure, social welfare, and governance
“Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, governance is only as effective as the well-being of those who serve within its corridors.
“In the past two years, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, we have witnessed significant welfare improvements for staff within the Oyo State House of Assembly and the House Commission,” Ogundoyin said.
The event had in attendance former deputy governor and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former deputy governors, Engr Hamid Gbadamosi and Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi; wife of a former Governor, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; and Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni.
Others were Commissioners, Chairmen of Boards and Agencies, Chairmen of local governments councils, traditional rulers, PDP leaders and religious leaders, among other dignitaries. (NAN)
