Makinde praises Workers’ commitment to Oyo
By Adewale Owoade
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has commended public and civil servants for their dedication and support to the state’s development.
Makinde gave the commendation at the 2025 Public Service Week and 2024 Merit Award Ceremony held at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan.
Makinde said, “Public and civil servants have two legs: the career officers and us, the elected officials.
“ In my six years plus as governor, we’ve been extremely lucky to work with civil servants who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to the state.
“That is why, when some people ask what the government intends to achieve with the 13th-month salary, the answer is simple: despite facing economic headwinds in the past six years, we have continued because we enjoyed your support.
“These two legs must continue to work together in the interest of our state. For me and this administration, we will continue to prioritise your welfare and well-being.
“To those who have received awards, congratulations — and more strength to your elbows. Don’t relent. And for those who didn’t win this time, strive harder; your time will come.”
Chairman of the event and former Oyo State Head of Service, Mr. Soji Eniade, stressed the importance of synergy and cooperation between elected officials and career civil servants, describing both as essential pillars of effective governance.
In her welcome address, the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, praised Governor Makinde for his commitment to workforce development and for institutionalising the Public Service Week.
Oni said, “This year’s theme ‘Digital Transformation and E-Governance for Effective Service Delivery in Public Institutions’ reflects the global reality that the future of governance rests on technology, innovation and digital inclusion.
“The Public Service remains the cornerstone of national stability and progress.
“For us in Oyo State, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate our values of integrity, accountability, professionalism, innovation, courage and commitment wherever we found ourselves.
“I must commend the extraordinary commitment of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, FNSE, D.Sc., GSSRS, who has not only sustained, but elevated the Public Service Week into an institutional platform for growth and excellence.
“Under your watch, the Civil/Public Service has recorded landmark achievements in 2025.
“These are not mere policy achievements but legacies of a labour-friendly Governor who recognises that the Public Service is the engine of development.”
Forty-two outstanding workers from the Ministry of Health, Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) and the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) received merit awards.
Dignitaries present included the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented by Justice M. O. Ishola); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.
Others are Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; labour leaders and other senior government officials. (NAN)
