The Oyo State Government is ready to expend about ₦64 billion for what it described as a reconstruction of the Government House, Ibadan.

This reconstruction has generated debates from both the opposition and political onlookers.

You will recall that, in my last open letter to His Excellency, I raised concern on the bogus amount earmarked for the upgrade of Ladoke Akintola Airport to an international standard. And while offering a way forward, I highly suggested the importance of our rural roads, as they are the catalyst for the agricultural revolution that governments at all levels are clamouring for.

As far as turning our local airport into an international standard is concerned, it shouldn’t have been a priority when the majority of our basic schools’ infrastructure are in disrepair, local roads are nothing to write home about, citizens are living in abject poverty, and security also needs serious attention.

That was not just a misplaced priority, it was perceived by many as another way to siphon money.

Now, after ignoring our outcry and proceeding with the purported international airport, Gov. Makinde is now proposing about ₦64 billion to reconstruct the Government House.

In case you’re not aware, Oyo State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the year 2024 was ₦65 billion, just one billion above the amount earmarked to reconstruct the Government House, a house that will serve less than 0.5 percent of our entire population. This spending is not only extravagant, it’s highly unnecessary.

Yes, the Government House may be seen as the seat of power, but it is not the Government Secretariat where governance is administered.

Yes, our Government House may need renovation, but how do we justify such a humongous amount for a single building?

Recall that in 2016, just three years to the end of Senator Abiola Ajimobi’s administration, he renovated the same Government House with billions of naira only for Gov. Makinde to abandon the residence three years later in 2019. Was this for a purpose? To make it look rough and uninhabitable, then earmark a ridiculous amount before the end of his own tenure? Why was it abandoned?

No nation or state grows when it spends all its IGR on a project that has no significant impact on the general population.

What is the people’s gain in the Government House reconstruction?

Who gave this advice?

Sey na like this we go dey dey?

Thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for increasing state governments’ allocation by 300–400% from the proceeds of fuel subsidy removal.

This has been a paradigm shift for the governor in recent times. While some governors prioritize development, some focus on how the excess resources would be siphoned.

Rather than Governor Makinde’s renovation of the Government House with such a huge amount, why not prioritize investing genuinely in agriculture, not necessarily as a government venture, but by encouraging farmers in rural environments through enabling environments like rural-urban roads, grading roads that link to major farmlands across local governments, lighting up rural communities, and other initiatives that’ll encourage urban-rural migration?

Low-interest loans to local farmers in Oyo State should also be encouraged, to be handled by local farmers’ associations in collaboration with the local governments.

Provision of fertilizers to local farmers in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and NNPC, among others, is another feasible move.

Ultimately, these recommendations fall under the Residual Legislative List and, supposedly, should be the responsibility of the local government administration. But owing to the reality in Oyo State, Governor Makinde should at least ask each local government to submit one rural road per ward across Oyo State, especially in local governments that fall within rural environments.

This will position Oyo State as the food basket not only of the Southwest but of the entire nation, thereby boosting our economic prosperity and building many multi-millionaire farmers

We’re not saying the government should not renovate the Government House, but 30% of such amount can be used judiciously. We will still have a befitting Government House, and other recommendations will be adequately attended to.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has vowed to unseat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from power in Oyo State in the 2027 general elections.

Adelabu made this declaration while receiving key APC leaders and stakeholders from Ibadan South-East Local Government Area at his residence, where they pledged their support for his political structure.

Addressing the delegation, Adelabu described the current PDP-led administration as a disappointment, stating that the time has come for the APC to reclaim the state.

“We cannot continue to watch from the sidelines while PDP continues to drag Oyo State backward. By the grace of God, with the support of loyal party members and the good people of Oyo State, PDP will be sent packing in 2027,” Adelabu said.

He also noted that disunity and internal wrangling within the APC contributed to the party’s failure in the 2023 elections, assuring that efforts are ongoing to strengthen internal reconciliation and rebuild party cohesion.

The delegation was led by prominent political figures in Ibadan South-East, including Alhaji Mufutau Adisa ‘Gbayawu’, Alhaji Akeem Olatunji, and Hon. Mojeed Olaoya, the Oyo South APC senatorial chairman.

A notable ally of Senator Teslim Folarin and strong grassroots mobilisers, Alhaji Akeem Olatunji Akogun, Alhaji Mufutau Adisa, popularly known as Gbayawu, and Hon. Mojeed Olaoya, have declared support for the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This declaration was made when ‘Gbayawu’ led ward executives and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ibadan South-East Local Government Area on a visit to the minister at his residence in Ibadan.

The visit, which included local party officials, ward chairmen, and youth leaders, was described as a “strategic alignment” towards strengthening the APC structure in the build-up to 2027.

Recall that the Power Minister, Adelabu is from Ward 9, in Ibadan South East Local Government.

Speaking during the visit, Gbayawu said his decision to now support Adelabu was borne out of the need to realign with progressive elements in the state who are genuinely committed to rebuilding the APC and delivering results in future elections.

He said, “I was fully with Senator Teslim Folarin in the last governorship election. We gave it our all, but it’s time to look ahead.

“After deep reflection and consultation with my people, I am convinced that Chief Bayo Adelabu is the right person to lead this new phase of unity and progress in Oyo APC. His capacity, sincerity, and track record speak for him.”

In his remarks, Chief Adelabu, a former governorship candidate and the current Minister of Power, expressed appreciation for the show of solidarity, assuring the delegation of his readiness to work with party leaders at all levels to avoid division.

“I will continue to consult with our leaders, elders, and stakeholders to ensure we build a united house. There’s no room for conflict in our party, what matters now is to strengthen our base, reconnect with the grassroots, and ensure we deliver Oyo in 2027,” Adelabu stated.

The Director-General of the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, Hon. Olajide Boladuro, has paid an emotional tribute to his late father, retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Isaac Adeyemo Boladuro, on the occasion of what would have been his 80th birthday.

Born on June 26, 1945, the late AIG Boladuro was a distinguished officer of the Nigeria Police Force and one of the most respected figures in the law enforcement community during a golden era of discipline and integrity in the service. He passed away on August 6, 2014, just 42 days after his grand 70th birthday celebration in Ibadan.

In a heartfelt message made available to journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday, Hon. Boladuro described his late father as “a fine officer, a devoted family man, and a legacy-builder whose memory continues to live on in the hearts of many.”

“He was a mentor to many, including the late Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala. He was also a contemporary and colleague of former Inspectors General of Police like Tafa Balogun, Mike Okiro, and Sunday Ehindero. He served this country with honour, rising through the ranks when the police uniform commanded respect and the institution stood for justice and order,” Boladuro said.

He was also credited with mentoring a generation of police officers who went on to distinguish themselves in service, including retired DIG Leye Oyegbade and former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni.

A native of Otan Ayegbaju in Osun State, the late Isaac Boladuro was fondly called “Akande Aro, Omo Ayo Maya,” a name that still resonates across generations and among his peers. He was widely known for his uprightness, polished appearance, and signature style a man of tribal marks who “knew how to wear a cap,” as described by the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi during his burial.

Boladuro recalled the elaborate celebration held for his father’s 70th birthday on June 26, 2014 a Thursday which attracted prominent dignitaries including Lt. Gen. Alani Akinrinade (rtd) as chairman of the occasion, former Governors Ajimobi and Akala, Baba Bisi Akande, and several retired senior police officers like DIG Leye Oyegbade.

“It was a joyful celebration of a life well lived. Nobody knew it would be the last major event we’d share with him. Just 42 days after, he passed away. It has been 10 years now, but his legacy remains strong and unshaken,” Boladuro said.

The late AIG was not only admired for his public service, but also for his role as a father and husband. A father of six, he was known to be generous, compassionate, and full of wisdom. “He taught us grace, dignity, and resilience. His love was intentional and his presence commanding,” Hon. Boladuro added.

He also noted that the current AIG in charge of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force, AIG Funsho Adegboye, was enlisted into the police by his father a further testament to his enduring legacy in the Force.

Marking what would have been his father’s 80th birthday, Hon. Boladuro said the family has chosen to honour him not just with remembrance but by upholding the values he stood for. Plans are also underway to hold a 10th-year memorial in August to reflect on his enduring impact.

“Today, we remember Akande Aro, Omo Eyinade, Omo Ayo Maya, Omo won ni Sao Awonga. We remember the man whose name still opens doors, whose voice still echoes in our hearts, and whose example still guides our steps. Didun ni iranti olododo the memory of the righteous is blessed. Even though you’re gone from sight, your presence lives on. Happy 80th birthday in Heaven, Daddy. We miss you deeply, and we honour you forever,” he said.

Nigerian entrepreneur and youth advocate, Matthew Kehinde Ogunniyi, popularly known as Expy, has graduated with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Middlesex University, London.

The graduation ceremony held in June 2025 marked a significant milestone for Ogunniyi. His final dissertation, titled “NYFEW ProjectMakeMe: A Reality TV Show Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s Fashion and Creative Industries,” earned commendation from his academic supervisors and earned him a distinction.

His Supervisor Dr. Stephen Donohoe, described it as “a mind-blowing opportunity, not just for empowerment but as a viable business model.”

Ogunniyi is the founder of Suave Empire & Co. Ltd, and the convener of the Nigerian Youth Fashion and Empowerment Week (NYFEW) #ProjectMakeMe a platform focused on talent discovery, fashion innovation, and youth empowerment.

A native of Tede in Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, Ogunniyi is a former Young Progressives Party (YPP) gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, . He is known for blending creativity with advocacy, and for promoting enterprise-driven solutions to youth unemployment.

Speaking after the convocation, Ogunniyi said the pursuit of the MBA was driven by his desire to deepen his business and leadership skills for broader societal impact.

“I realised how critical business knowledge is to drive economic growth, especially at the state level. This degree is not the destination but the beginning of a bigger purpose,” he said.

He acknowledged the support of his family and most especially his wife, Bolanle Ogunniyi, and close allies throughout the academic journey. He also reaffirmed his commitment to scaling NYFEW ProjectMakeMe into a continental platform for youth development.

Plans are underway to officially launch the project as a pan-African reality show aimed at identifying, training, and funding young talents in the fashion and creative industries.

For partnership or media enquiries, the NYFEW team can be contacted via:
📧 partnership@nyfew.com.ng

Once again, thank you all for your support and love. This is just the beginning and let’s make history together Matthew Ogunniyi concluded.

Gender Equality and Empowerment: Unlocking Oyo’s Full Potential

In the drive for industrialisation and economic growth, the role of gender equality cannot be overstated. While Oyo State strives to achieve its ambitious industrialisation goals, it is imperative that women and marginalized groups are given the opportunities, resources, and support they need to thrive. Ensuring gender equality is not only a matter of social justice; it is also a key driver of economic growth and development. As Oyo seeks to evolve into a dynamic industrial hub, it must prioritize gender equality as an essential component of its growth strategy.

This series will examine the role of gender equality in Oyo’s industrial development, exploring the ways in which empowering women and other marginalized groups can unlock the full potential of the state. Drawing on the experiences of countries such as Singapore and Rwanda, we will explore how they have integrated gender equality into their development agendas and what lessons Oyo can learn from them.

Gender Equality: A Cornerstone of Sustainable Development

Across the globe, the correlation between gender equality and economic prosperity is well established. According to the World Economic Forum, economies with greater gender equality tend to experience higher levels of growth, better outcomes in health and education, and more inclusive and sustainable development. This is because empowering women and marginalized groups unlocks a vast reservoir of talent, creativity, and innovation that drives both economic productivity and social cohesion.

In Oyo State, gender equality is not just a moral imperative but a powerful tool for industrialisation. When women and girls are given equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, the entire state benefits. Women are not only consumers but also producers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who contribute to every sector, from agriculture to manufacturing to technology. As Oyo continues its push for industrialisation, it must recognize the critical role that gender equality plays in building a robust and dynamic economy.

The Global Experience: Gender and Industrialisation

Countries such as Singapore and Rwanda have demonstrated that gender equality and economic development are mutually reinforcing. Singapore, widely regarded as one of the most economically advanced countries in the world, has placed significant emphasis on empowering women. The country’s industrialisation and technological advances were built on the foundation of a strong, educated, and highly skilled workforce, which includes women at every level of industry. Singapore has implemented policies that support women’s participation in the workforce, including maternity leave, equal pay, and access to high-quality childcare services.

Similarly, Rwanda stands out as a remarkable example of how gender equality can drive national development. Following the devastating 1994 genocide, Rwanda adopted a gender-sensitive approach to governance and economic rebuilding. Today, Rwanda has the highest proportion of women in parliament globally, and women play a central role in driving the country’s economic transformation. Women are active participants in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and Rwanda’s agricultural sector —a backbone of its economy—has benefited significantly from women-led agricultural initiatives. The country’s focus on gender-responsive policies has been instrumental in its rapid industrialisation.

Oyo State can draw on these global examples as it works to ensure that its industrialisation journey is both inclusive and sustainable.

Gender Equality in Oyo State: The Path Forward

To realize its full potential, Oyo must embrace a vision of industrialisation that empowers women and marginalized groups. This requires both policy reforms and community engagement at multiple levels. Gender equality in Oyo should be promoted in all aspects of life, including education, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

1. Education and Skill Development: Empowering the Future Workforce

The foundation for gender equality in Oyo State lies in education. Women and girls must have equal access to quality education at all levels, from primary school to university. This not only enables them to contribute to the formal workforce but also equips them with the skills needed to excel in industries such as technology, engineering, agriculture, and manufacturing—sectors that will be central to Oyo’s industrial future.

Programs that focus on STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for girls can be particularly impactful. Female representation in these fields remains low globally, but by encouraging young girls in Oyo to pursue STEM careers, the state can build a workforce that is both diverse and competitive in the global economy.

2. Promoting Women’s Economic Participation: From Entrepreneurs to CEOs

Women in Oyo State must be empowered to contribute to the economy through entrepreneurship and leadership. While many women already engage in small-scale businesses, there is a need to create an enabling environment that supports their economic advancement. This includes improving access to finance, providing business training, and removing barriers to market access for women entrepreneurs.

In Oyo, where agriculture remains a crucial sector, promoting women in agribusiness can significantly increase productivity and economic outcomes. Women in rural areas are already contributing to farming, food processing, and agricultural trade, but there is potential for much greater growth if they have access to modern agricultural technologies, market information, and financial resources.

Moreover, policies aimed at reducing the gender pay gap, promoting equal job opportunities, and ensuring workplace safety will create a more inclusive labor market, enabling women to pursue careers in all sectors, from healthcare to manufacturing to technology.

3. Supporting Women in Leadership and Decision-Making

An industrialised Oyo State requires strong leadership, and women must be part of the decision-making process. It is essential to ensure gender parity in leadership positions, both in the public and private sectors. Women bring different perspectives to leadership, which can drive innovation, enhance problem-solving, and foster a more inclusive economy.

Encouraging more women to take on leadership roles in business, government, and civil society will contribute to the overall success of Oyo’s industrialisation efforts. This includes mentorship programs, leadership training, and initiatives that increase women’s participation in political processes and governance.

The Role of Men in Gender Equality

While much focus is often placed on empowering women, it is equally important to engage men in the conversation about gender equality. In Oyo State, men must be part of the solution by becoming advocates for gender equality. Men can support women in both the workplace and home, and by challenging traditional gender roles, they can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women to thrive.

Engaging men as allies in the pursuit of gender equality will strengthen the impact of the movement, ensuring that it is not perceived as a women’s issue but as a collective goal that benefits everyone.

Call to Action: How Citizens Can Support Gender Equality in Oyo State

– Advocate for Equal Opportunities: Support policies that provide women and girls with equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
– Encourage Female Entrepreneurs: Support and invest in women-owned businesses, especially those in key industrial sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
– Engage Men and Boys: Foster a culture of respect, equality, and shared responsibility by encouraging men and boys to challenge gender stereotypes and support women in the workplace and home.

Conclusion

For Oyo State to successfully industrialise, it must recognize that gender equality is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. Empowering women and marginalized groups will unlock immense economic potential, driving both innovation and growth. By creating a more inclusive economy, Oyo can build a brighter, more prosperous future for all its citizens. Let us stand together, regardless of gender, to build an industrialised, equal, and thriving Oyo State.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye