In the heart of Nigeria’s Southwest, Oyo State has been buzzing with transformation under Governor Seyi Makinde’s Omituntun agenda. Omituntun 1.0 kicked off with bold strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, laying a foundation for accelerated growth from 2019 to 2023. Then came Omituntun 2.0, directing gears towards sustainable development, economic diversification, job creation, and eco-friendly policies through 2027.

But as Governor Makinde’s term winds down, the big question lingers: Who can keep this momentum alive and catapult Oyo into Africa’s elite league of thriving states?

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, the 43-year-old dynamo emerges as the perfect heir. At age where energy meets wisdom, Adeoye brings that youthful vigour Oyo needs to tackle modern challenges. He is not a greenhorn in efficient service delivery while x-raying his contribution in private sector; he has courage and strength to innovate without losing sight of long-term goals, much like Governor Makinde did when he first stepped up. Imagine a leader who can sprint through reforms while building enduring legacies that is the edge his age offers.

But, it is Adeoye’s global exposure that really sets him apart. As a former Financial Advisory Partner at Deloitte & Touche, he has rubbed shoulders with international finance giants, mastering strategies that turned economies around worldwide. This isn’t just book smarts; it is real world savvy from navigating complex markets in a global firm. He knows how to attract foreign investments, streamline budgets, and foster public-private partnerships key ingredients to supercharge Omituntun’s economic pillars.

His career path seals the deal: a legal expert turned philanthropist, founding the Beulah Adeoye Foundation to uplift communities in Oyo. From honoring retirees to championing industrialization, Adeoye’s track record screams commitment to people-centered progress. He is already penning series on sustainable development, echoing Makinde’s vision while adding his financial acumen to make Oyo a hub for agribusiness, tech, and tourism.

Having engaged with diverse environments and ideas, he brings a broadened perspective that connects local realities with global opportunities. This exposure means he is not confined to the old ways of doing things; instead, he can infuse innovation, digital thinking and modern governance strategies into the structures already built in Oyo state.

With Adeoye at the helm, Oyo could leapfrog to become Africa’s next standout state thinking efficient governance, with improved IGR, and inclusive prosperity. He is not just continuing the track; he is upgrading the rails for a smoother, faster ride. Oyo deserves this blend of youth, global insight, and proven expertise. The future looks brighter already.

Abegunde Samuel Temitope
Writes from Ibadan

The crisis between New Glory Baptist Church (formerly Ajegunle Baptist Church), Agbowo, Ibadan and the Convention President has taken a disturbing turn as the church council has cried out for urgent intervention, accusing the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) President, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, of masterminding a wave of harassment, arrests, and intimidation against its members.

In a Save Our Souls (SOS) letter issued on the church’s letterhead, the council alleged that despite having two cases currently before courts of competent jurisdiction over ownership of church properties, Rev. Akanji and his Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) lawyer have continued to weaponise the Nigeria Police Force to target church members.

According to the council, Akanji is working with two individuals, Mr. Ayokunle Oladele and Mr. Peter Oyelola, who allegedly act as pointers to members’ homes and offices to facilitate arrests.

“Last week, members of the Church’s Building Committee were arrested and detained. This week, they have begun targeting the School Board management and church secretariat members. We do not know who will be next on their list,” the SOS letter stated.

This development comes barely days after the management of Baptist High School, Agbowo, which is owned by the church, refuted allegations circulating in a viral video about the demolition of one of its classroom buildings. The school clarified that the structure had become structurally unsafe and was demolished with all necessary approvals for reconstruction. However, it disclosed that some of its members had been victimised and arrested despite the exercise being legally approved.

“These coordinated acts of intimidation, harassment, and victimisation are not only unlawful but deeply unchristian. Instead of reconciliation, peace, and due process, we are seeing brute force, oppression, and contempt for the rule of law,” a church member lamented.

The church council is now appealing to the Nigerian Baptist Convention family worldwide, civil society, and the general public to intervene and call Rev. Akanji to order.

“Our lives and liberty are under siege. We plead with all stakeholders and the general public: SAVE OUR SOULS,” the letter concluded.

Road Transportation: The Arteries of Industrial Growth

When we think of industrialisation, it’s easy to focus on power, factories, or technological innovations. Yet, one of the most fundamental aspects of any industrialised society is the transportation network – specifically, road transportation. Roads are the physical connections that link cities, towns, and industries, enabling the movement of goods, services, and people across the state. Without efficient and reliable roads, the ambition to transform Oyo State into an industrial powerhouse would face insurmountable hurdles.

This series focuses on the vital role of road transportation in Oyo State’s journey to industrialisation. We will explore how modernising the state’s road infrastructure will unlock new economic opportunities, boost the flow of goods and services, and improve connectivity across the state. By examining the success stories of nations like Singapore and Rwanda, we will uncover how well-planned road networks can act as the backbone of industrial growth.

The Crucial Role of Roads in Industrialisation

Imagine a factory that manufactures products in Ogbomoso, but cannot easily transport them to Ajia in Ibadan or Ipapo in Oke-Ogun because of bad roads. Or picture agricultural products from Igbo Ora in Ibarapa that spoil in transit because of poorly maintained roads, cutting into profits and increasing costs. The economic consequences of inadequate transportation infrastructure are immense.

In any thriving industrial economy, road networks are key. Roads facilitate:

1. Efficient Movement of Goods: Good roads ensure that goods produced in one area can be transported to markets, distribution centres, and ports without delay or damage. A robust transportation system helps industries meet demand on time and keeps production lines running smoothly.

2. Mobility for the Workforce: For workers to be productive, they must be able to commute to their places of work efficiently. In an industrialising economy like Oyo’s, an efficient transport system provides workers with access to employment opportunities in urban and industrial zones.

3. Attracting Investment: Investors are more likely to invest in regions with efficient transportation infrastructure. If Oyo State is to become an industrial hub in West Africa, improving road transportation is a prerequisite for attracting both local and international investment.

4. Boosting Agriculture and Trade: Oyo State is predominantly an agricultural state, with produce from regions like Oke-Ogun contributing significantly to the state’s economy. Well-maintained roads are critical for moving agricultural products from rural areas to urban markets, preventing spoilage, and increasing trade efficiency.

Learning from Global and African Neighbours

Both Singapore and Rwanda provide valuable lessons on the impact of well-developed road infrastructure on industrial growth.

In the case of Singapore, the city-state’s road infrastructure was designed with precision to ensure that its ports, industrial zones, and residential areas were all well-connected. As a global hub for trade and industry, Singapore understood that its success was partly due to its highly integrated transportation system, which included not just roads, but also world-class ports and airports. The Road and Rail Master Plan of Singapore focused on improving connectivity between different sectors and regions, ensuring smooth movement for both people and goods. In the same way, Oyo State can harness its road infrastructure to connect its rural and urban areas, and link its diverse industries for seamless growth.

Rwanda, though much smaller, has been able to utilise its limited resources effectively by focusing on developing critical infrastructure that fosters trade, agriculture, and industry. One of Rwanda’s main objectives has been to build roads that connect Kigali to rural areas, facilitating access for both locals and foreign investors. This strategy of improving accessibility to the capital city and key industrial zones has played a major role in Rwanda’s industrialisation and economic growth. Oyo State can adopt a similar approach by focusing on connecting its key localities like Ogbomoso, Ibadan, Iseyin, and Oke-Ogun through well-designed road networks.

Oyo State’s Road Transportation Challenges and Opportunities

Oyo State, like many states in Nigeria, faces several road transportation challenges. Roads are often poorly maintained, with potholes, traffic congestion, and inadequate road signage, making travel both difficult and dangerous. However, these challenges also present opportunities for transformation:

1. Expanding and Upgrading Roads: One of the most pressing needs is the expansion and upgrade of existing roads to accommodate increasing traffic as Oyo State industrialises. Major highways like the Ibadan-Ilorin road, Ibadan-Oyo road, and Ogbomoso-Ibadan expressway must be expanded to reduce traffic bottlenecks and improve connectivity across the state.

2. Rural Connectivity: Many rural areas in Oyo State, such as the interior parts of Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun, Ofiki, Igboho, Igbope etc, are disconnected from the economic pulse of the state due to poor road infrastructure – some have major nerve roads that have never been tarred such as the one from Ago-Are to Ofiki (in spite of the huge cashew cash crop supply there). Upgrading local roads that link farms to markets and rural areas to urban centres will allow agricultural goods to flow more efficiently, reducing wastage and improving the state’s agricultural output.

3. Public Transport System: Oyo State could also benefit from developing a modern public transport system that connects various towns and cities. Buses or light rail could be deployed to ease traffic congestion in Ibadan and other urban areas while providing affordable transportation options for the growing population.

4. Road Safety and Maintenance: Oyo State will still benefit from a comprehensive plan for road safety and regular maintenance to avoid the rapid deterioration of its infrastructure. Training road safety officers, installing traffic management systems, and ensuring regular maintenance checks can help prevent accidents and ensure smooth transportation across the state.

Road Transportation and Oyo’s Industrial Future

For Oyo State to realise its industrial potential, it must embrace the critical role that transportation infrastructure will play in its economic development. By improving road networks, the state will unlock opportunities for industries to grow and create jobs, increase agricultural productivity, and promote trade. Oyo State can also tap into new sectors, such as logistics, tourism, and construction, that rely heavily on reliable transportation systems.

Additionally, an improved transportation system will reduce the overall cost of doing business in Oyo, making it a more attractive place for both local and international investors.

The Path Forward: Key Steps for Oyo State

To make the most of its road transportation system, Oyo State must take the following key steps:

1. Develop a Road Master Plan: Oyo should design a long-term road infrastructure master plan that identifies key roads for expansion, upgrading, and maintenance. This plan should focus on connecting industrial hubs, urban areas, and rural communities to ensure seamless transportation.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: Public-private partnerships (PPP) should be encouraged to fund and execute major road projects. With the right incentives, private companies can help build and maintain roads that meet the needs of the growing industrial sector.

3. Promote Sustainable Transport Solutions: As the state modernises, it should also consider integrating sustainable transport solutions, such as electric buses and light rail systems, into its road transportation strategy.

4. Focus on Road Safety: Ensuring road safety is crucial to reducing accidents and enhancing the overall efficiency of the road network. This includes installing better signage, improving traffic laws enforcement, and regular road checks.

Call to Action: What Citizens Can Do Today

Support infrastructure projects: Advocate for road development and maintenance in your community. Engage with local government officials and hold them accountable for delivering better transportation solutions.

Use public transport: Encourage all cadres of society on the use of public transport in Oyo State, firstly to reduce traffic congestion and promote more efficient transportation in urban areas. Provide feedback from these experiences and execute on improvement initiatives.

Promote road safety: Be a responsible driver or pedestrian. Follow traffic rules, report bad road conditions, and participate in local road safety campaigns.

In the end, Oyo State’s road transportation system is not just about moving people from one place to another—it is about creating connections that facilitate industrial growth, trade, and economic prosperity. By prioritising this infrastructure, Oyo State can take significant strides toward becoming an industrial hub in West Africa.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye

The Oyo State House of Assembly resumed plenary today after a six-week legislative recess, with Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin commending Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership for its transformative initiatives.

During the sitting, the House reflected on the Executive’s achievements, including the rollout of road infrastructure projects, launch of the Subnational Strategy for AfCFTA, increased IGR without tax hikes, and financial discipline that has positioned Oyo among states with the lowest foreign debt in the South West.

The House passed a motion endorsing the Governor’s developmental agenda and people-focused leadership. Other motions considered included special medical intervention programs for indigent patients and installation of reflective road signs to enhance road safety.

Speaker Ogundoyin also addressed concerns about potential victimization or suspension of lawmakers, assuring that no member would be harassed or unfairly treated. He urged colleagues to stay focused, rise above distractions, and prioritize legislation that uplifts the people and strengthens democratic institutions.

The Speaker’s assurance comes amid recent tensions within the Assembly. With the resumption of plenary, the House is expected to tackle key issues affecting the state, with a focus on good governance and people’s welfare.

The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Tuesday disclosed that President Bola Tinubu will be among the dignitaries who will grace his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The coronation of Oba Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State and Third Republic Senator, will take place in Ibadan on September 26, 2025.

The royal father disclosed this when a delegation from Ode-Omu, Osun State, paid him a royal visit at his Bodija residence, Ibadan.

Tinubu has been a friend to Oba Ladoja, as both were part of the Senate in the defunct Third Republic and governors in the Fourth Republic. They were in trenches together during the dark days of military rule in the 1990s.

He said, “Many personalities in Osun State have visited me. Governor Ademola Adeleke, former governors from the state have come. Adegboyega Oyetola sent a message. Oyetola knows the relationship between me and the Leader of the country. The Leader of the country [President Tinubu] will grace my coronation. He will come around.”

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan endured another frustrating outing on Sunday as they fell 1-0 to Rivers United in Port Harcourt, a result that leaves the club rooted to 19th place on the Nigeria Premier Football League table.

The decisive moment came in the first half when Friday Ubong scored a stunning volley from a corner kick, leaving the Oluyole Warriors’ goalkeeper helpless. Despite showing glimpses of fight, 3SC failed to mount a comeback and slumped to their second defeat of the campaign.

The loss compounds the struggles of the Ibadan-based side, who are still without a win this season. Under new head coach Nurudeen Aweroro, 3SC opened the campaign with a loss to Bayelsa United before recording back-to-back 1–1 draws against Bendel Insurance and Ikorodu City.

Sunday’s defeat means the club now has just two points from a possible 12, with a negative goal difference of –2. Their position at the foot of the table has already sparked concern among fans and heightened pressure on Aweroro to turn things around.

Historically, Rivers United have held the upper hand in this fixture, winning five of their last nine meetings against 3SC. With the Ibadan side managing only three wins and one draw in that period, the latest defeat further underlines their struggles against the Port Harcourt giants.

With morale dipping and results going against them, the Oluyole Warriors must now find a way to secure their first victory of the season before the campaign slips into a full-blown crisis.

Fans are growing restless, accusing both management and players of failing to justify the confidence reposed in them.