Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has announced plans for a significant overhaul of the state’s education infrastructure in 2025.
Speaking today during a media chat on the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), which was also aired on several radio stations across the state, the governor noted that the government has been reallocating resources to do more for the education sector.
He highlighted his administration’s commitment to improving the sector and acknowledged that while progress has been made, more effort is needed to address pressing issues.
During the media chat, Governor Makinde called for a minute of silence in memory of the 35 children who lost their lives in a stampede in Ibadan on Tuesday. He described the incident as a monumental tragedy and emphasized that it, along with the Bodija explosion in January 2024, were entirely avoidable if appropriate measures had been taken.
Addressing concerns about the explosion, the governor clarified that suspects arrested in connection with the incident are facing legal proceedings, contrary to claims they had been released. He acknowledged the slow pace of justice but assured residents that the law is taking its course.
Governor Makinde also reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the education sector, stating that the government has consistently exceeded UNESCO’s recommended budgetary allocation for education.
“We are rearranging our resources to do more for the education sector. Since I assumed office, we have exceeded the UNESCO benchmark for education funding,” he said.
The governor reiterated a previous declaration that the state needs approximately ₦60 billion to fully address its education needs. While acknowledging the significant investments made so far, he stressed that more work remains to be done.
“For tertiary institutions, I can say we are doing well, and I am satisfied,” he added.
Speaking on economic development, Governor Makinde highlighted his administration’s efforts to expand the state’s economy, including creating housing estates and the planned Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project.
“Breaking the cycle of poverty requires bold decisions,” the governor said. “Our goal is to produce more, expand the economy, and create opportunities for everyone, regardless of political or religious affiliations.”
He dismissed accusations of land grabbing, asserting that the development projects are designed to bring long-term benefits to the state.
“The Circular Road will be Nigeria’s first motorway, with a 32km stretch from Tech-U to Badeku, featuring only two exit points. This is how we plan to develop the corridor,” he explained.
Governor Makinde noted significant improvements in Oyo State’s budget performance since his administration took office in 2019.
“We realigned the budget in 2019, achieving 48% performance. Despite COVID-19, we reached 60% in 2020. Now, we are well over 70%, which has enabled stability in project execution and improved livability for residents,” he said.
Addressing the Federal Government’s Tax Reform Bill, Governor Makinde clarified his position, stating that he is not opposed to the reforms but advocates for broader stakeholder engagement.
“At the National Economic Council (NEC), we unanimously agreed to ask the Federal Government to withdraw the bill from the National Assembly for wider consultation,” he explained.
The governor urged Nigerians to focus on the message rather than the messenger, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder alignment to ensure meaningful reform.
Governor Makinde however, reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, economic expansion, and governance reforms. He assured residents that his government’s decisions, though sometimes tough, are in the best interest of the state.