Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has stated that the residents of the state will have the final say in choosing his successor.
He made this declaration in his bi-monthly newsletter, where he reflected on his administration’s achievements and the future of governance in Oyo State.
Governor Makinde emphasized that his government has redefined governance through strategic thinking and targeted implementations.
However, he acknowledged concerns from some quarters about whether the next governor would sustain the progress made.
While he will eventually reveal the candidate he supports for continuity, he reiterated that the decision ultimately rests with the people of the state.
Makinde assured the people of Oyo State that his administration still has over two years to deliver more developmental projects.
He highlighted key focus areas, including infrastructure development, tourism, agribusiness, and solid minerals, all targeted at expanding the state’s economy.
Referencing the recent visit of Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub, Makinde noted that Oyo State’s agribusiness policies have gained international recognition. He attributed this success to the state’s reliance on data, science, and logic in driving agricultural reforms.
According to the governor, President Bio was highly impressed by the state’s agribusiness initiatives and even invited him to Sierra Leone for further discussions on agricultural development.
Makinde admitted that the state’s tractorisation policy, which aimed to subsidize the cost of ploughing by 50% for farmers, achieved only 5% implementation in 2024. He pledged to address bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve communication to ensure better success in subsequent phases.
“We have tested and seen what worked and what didn’t. For example, we will spend more time communicating the policy and ensuring that our farmers know about the project and how it will be run. We will also ensure that any bureaucratic bottlenecks that exist are eliminated,” Makinde said.
Addressing questions about the future, Makinde reassured the people of Oyo State that they hold the power to determine the state’s next leader. He stated:
In his words, “The truth is, it is in the hands of the people of Oyo State to chart a new path and decide their destiny. You gave me the opportunity to serve you, and so you will also decide who will serve you next.”
He disclosed that by 2026, he will reveal the candidate he supports for the 2027 gubernatorial election. However, he emphasized that the final decision rests with the people of Oyo State: “It will then be left to you, the good people of Oyo State, to say if you want that continuity.”
