As Oyo State marks the sixth anniversary of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Oyo State chapter, has hailed the governor’s transformative strides in local government administration, describing his leadership model as one worthy of national emulation.
The Oyo state NULGE president, Comrade Ayobami Adeogun, disclosed this on Thursday afternoon in a statement to commemorate the governor’s 6th year in office.
According to the statement, the union lauded Governor Makinde for what it termed a “remarkable turnaround” in the fortunes of local councils across the state.
Comrade Adeogun, highlighted key reforms and achievements that have revitalized the third tier of government in the state since 2019.
“Under Governor Makinde’s visionary leadership, local government administration has witnessed unprecedented development, transparency, and personnel growth.
“His commitment to grassroots empowerment and infrastructure renewal has made Oyo a reference point in local governance across the nation,” Comrade Adeogun said.
The union particularly praised the regular and full payment of workers salaries six years in a stretch without a single month of default, the restoration of democratic structures at the council level through credible elections, and the prioritization of workers’ welfare, including timely promotions and payment of arrears.
“Before 2019, local governments were shadows of themselves. Today, they are functional, delivering tangible development and responsive governance. That is the Makinde model, and it deserves to be studied and replicated across the federation,” the statement added.
In addition to administrative and structural reforms, NULGE acknowledged the governor’s investment in capacity-building programs for LG staff, which it said has enhanced efficiency and service delivery.
“Governor Makinde did not just provide the needed support; he provided direction. He gave councils the confidence to perform and made the welfare of workers a top priority,” Adeogun said.
The union also used the anniversary to call on other state governments to borrow a leaf from Oyo State’s approach, asserting that strengthening local government institutions is key to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that Makinde, who was sworn in for a second term in 2023, has often reiterated his belief in true federalism and the need to empower local councils to fulfill their constitutional mandate.
His administration’s emphasis on transparency and fiscal responsibility has been widely acknowledged by civil society groups, development partners, and now, organized labour.