The Oyo State House of Assembly has dismissed the petition written against the management of the Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Service (PTS) by the Chairman, Association of Sacked Supervendors and Investors, Mr. Ibrahim Asiwaju.

The recommendation for the dismissal of the petition was contained in a report read and presented before the House during the plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin on Tuesday.

Presenting the report, the Chairman, House Standing Committee on Transport, Hon Adebayo Babajide recommended that the petition be dismissed on the ground of lack of merit and substantive evidence.

The lawmaker also recommended that the House should direct the management of PTS to design and implement a well-structured organogram that will establish reporting lines, job roles and responsibilities of all personnel to eliminate ambiguity, prevent role duplication, and enhance overall productivity in the company.

Clarifying the incident that led to the petition written by the Chairman, Association of Sacked Supervendors and Investors Of Oyo State Pace Setter Transport Services (PTS), Mr. Ibrahim Asiwaju, Hon. Babajide disclosed that the Committee discovered illegal activities, collusion and fraud between the vendors and the drivers, which led to the termination of appointment of the vendors.

“Prior to the introduction and implementation of the card payment system to streamline transactions, the company faced leakages in revenue with average daily income reportedly around two hundred thousand naira (N200, 000:00). Following the introduction of the card payment system, the revenue increased to two million naira (N2,000,000:00) on the first day.

“The engagement of vendors to monitor card reader machines and prohibit cash payments, the leakages initially reduced. However, the vendors’ collusion with drivers on fare collection in cash led to further fraud, this prompted the company to terminate their contracts.”

Hon. Babajide said that the Committee also discovered that it is the Pacesetter Transport Service that is responsible for the payment of pensions and gratuities of its retirees and staff salaries, however, urged the House to direct the company to adopt use of contract staff for improved efficiency and productivity to enable the company to widen its scope from inter and intra city routes to interstate routes.

The lawmaker maintained that the discovered that the activities of PTS are in line with guidelines of its operations and are subjected to the approval of the state Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

He recommended that “the Executive Arm of Government be urged, through SAFER Program to increase the subvention to the Pacesetter Transport Services (PTS) to support its subsidized service to citizens of the State.

“The petition submitted by Mr. Ibrahim Asiwaju Chairman, Association of Sacked Supervendors and Investors Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Services (PTS) to the House be dismissed for lacking in merit and credible evidence, the use of vendors system for revenue generation be terminated due to misconducts and the terms of engagement of contract staff be redefined regarding period of engagement and other conditions of service.

“The Management of Pacesetter Transport Services be urged to restructure its workforce and those who had been found guilty of misconduct and had been suspended more than twice, the Management of PTS be urged to design and implement a well-structured organogram that clearly defines reporting lines, job roles and responsibilities of all personnel. This will help eliminate ambiguity, prevent role duplication, and enhance overall productivity in the Pacesetter Transport Services; and the Pacesetter Transport Service (PTS) be urged to operate strictly in accordance with its conditions of service,” Hon. Babajide Adebayo said.
‎

Dear Children of Oyo State,

I write to you today with deep admiration and hope for your future. You are the shining stars of a land rich in heritage, wisdom, and unmatched potential. Oyo State is not just a place on the map—it is the birthplace of kings, scholars, statesmen, and women of excellence. You are heirs to a legacy of greatness, and with it comes the call to rise with diligence, discipline, and a thirst for knowledge.

Let me share with you the story of one of Oyo’s finest sons, *Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide*, SAN, CON. Born in 1931 in Ibadan, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most brilliant legal minds and political leaders. A Queen’s Counsel-trained lawyer in the UK, he returned to Nigeria and became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Education in the First Republic and later as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in the Second Republic.

Chief Akinjide was known for his sharp intellect, mastery of the law, and unwavering commitment to national development. He was a gifted orator and a man of principle whose influence shaped the course of Nigerian legal and political history. He showed that with hard work, quality education, and integrity, a child from Oyo can reach the very heights of national and global leadership.

And he is just one among many. Think also of the late Chief Bola Ige, a fierce advocate for justice, a former Governor, and a man who believed in the power of words and ideas. Remember Professor Akin Mabogunje, Africa’s pioneering geographer. Think of Chief (Mrs.) HID Awolowo—though born in Ogun State—who stood as a pillar of strength in Nigeria’s political history. These heroes left us footprints to follow, and now, the responsibility falls to you to carry the torch forward.

Dear children, if you want to be great, start with your books. Take your education seriously. Ask questions in class. Respect your teachers and your parents. Read the stories of our ancestors. Embrace mathematics and science with the same passion you give to games and music. Know your history and language—they are the roots that hold you firm.

Diligence means doing your best even when nobody is watching. It means reading that extra chapter. It means preparing for exams not by luck, but by study. It means choosing the harder right over the easier wrong.

Your dreams are valid—whether to become a doctor, lawyer, teacher, engineer, writer, musician, or the future governor of Oyo State. But dreams alone will not get you there. You need focus, effort, and resilience. There are no shortcuts to success that last. The real path takes time, discipline, and values.

As children of Oyo, the land of Alaafin, Sango, and great scholars, you carry greatness in your blood. Stand tall in your identity. Be proud of your roots. But also be humble enough to learn, to grow, and to build something new for the future.

How about the example of our current Governor, His Excellency Seyi Makinde – Let your ambition be bold, but let your actions be wise. Help your families. Be kind to others. Avoid bad influences. Respect your elders. And most of all, believe in yourself. You are not too young to make a difference.

The world is changing fast, but Oyo’s spirit lives on in you. The next Chief Akinjide, the next Mabogunje, the next Seyi Makinde, the next great leader of Africa could be sitting in a classroom in Oyo today. Why not you?

I believe in you. Oyo State believes in you. Now go and make history.

With hope and pride,
A Proud Son of the Soil,

Amofin Beulah Adeoye

*Ethical Leadership as the Cornerstone of Industrialization: Lessons for Oyo State*

In the pursuit of sustainable industrial growth, many regions around the world have come to realize that infrastructure and investment are not enough. Ethical leadership—characterized by integrity, transparency, and a people-centered vision—plays a pivotal role. As Oyo State stands on the threshold of industrial rejuvenation, it is imperative to draw lessons from countries that have walked this path successfully. Singapore and Rwanda provide illuminating examples, and Oyo State’s Governor, Seyi Makinde, offers a compelling local case. This piece examines the leadership models that have powered ethical industrialization, contrasts them with instances of compromised justice and institutional failure, and ultimately calls on citizens to champion a culture of ethics.

For my discussion today, Singapore still represents a blueprint of industrial might and ethical governance. Singapore’s transformation from a colonial backwater in the 1960s into a global economic powerhouse today is nothing short of extraordinary. The driving force behind this miracle was the ethical leadership of the late Lee Kuan Yew, the country’s founding Prime Minister.

Lee understood early on, that sustainable economic growth hinged on eradicating corruption and instilling a culture of meritocracy. His government implemented strict anti-corruption laws, empowered independent agencies like the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), and emphasized competence and efficiency in public service.

Industrialization in Singapore was not left to chance. Strategic partnerships with multinational corporations were fostered under transparent conditions. The Jurong Industrial Estate, once a swamp, became a model of organized industrial development, thanks to state planning devoid of rent-seeking behavior.

Importantly, the nation’s financial institutions, notably the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), were built on principles of trust and rigorous oversight. MAS set standards that made Singapore one of the safest places in Asia for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In a society where leadership showed the way by living modestly and avoiding the trappings of corruption, industrial growth was both rapid and inclusive.

Rwanda, our darling African example has also grown from ashes to aspiration. Few countries have demonstrated the power of ethical leadership in post-conflict industrialization as Rwanda. Under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, the nation emerged from the 1994 genocide with a determined commitment to accountability and development.

Kagame’s administration is often noted for its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and its emphasis on clean governance. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Rwanda’s National Public Prosecution Authority serve as key institutions that ensure investments are vetted transparently and the rule of law is upheld.

Industrially, Rwanda has prioritized technology, manufacturing, and agro-processing sectors, with special economic zones designed to attract investors through simplified and honest procedures. The Kagame government’s refusal to indulge in favoritism or bribery has made Rwanda one of the most attractive investment destinations in Africa.

The National Bank of Rwanda is known for its independence and its role in stabilizing the macroeconomic environment. Through ethical stewardship, Rwanda has achieved sustained growth without the scandals that plague many developing economies.

Gratefully, we have in Oyo State, His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde who embodies the promise of ethical industrialisation. In Nigeria, Oyo State has quietly begun crafting its own industrial revolution. At the heart of this transformation is Governor Seyi Makinde, a leader whose administration has been widely lauded for transparency, fiscal prudence, and citizen-centered governance.

Makinde’s declaration of assets upon assuming office in 2019 was an unprecedented move in Nigeria’s political landscape. He further distinguished himself by allocating significant portions of the state budget to education, healthcare, and infrastructure without credible allegations of financial impropriety.

Under his leadership, the Ilu TunTun Business District in Ibadan has taken shape, with industrial hubs such as the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub and the rehabilitation of Oyo’s Free Trade Zone poised to stimulate private sector growth. The state’s financial architecture, particularly its relationship with banks and the use of public-private partnerships, has remained largely scandal-free—a rarity in Nigerian politics.

Makinde has also leaned on technology to reduce corruption: implementing biometric verification for civil servants, streamlining revenue collection systems, and digitizing land administration. These reforms have created a business-friendly environment where the rule of law, rather than political patronage, defines economic success.

Accordingly, ethical financial institutions represent catalysts of industrial growth. In both Singapore and Rwanda, ethical financial institutions have provided the backbone for development. Their counterparts in Nigeria, however, often tell a mixed story.

While some banks have historically maintained reputations for relative transparency, others have stumbled after the exit of their ethical founders, under wheeler-dealer greedy executives. A significant case in point is an international Bank in Nigeria. In 2022, a Justice of the Federal High Court in Lagos controversially presided over a case where this bank was accused of unauthorized deductions and customer fund misappropriation. In a rare judicial backlash, the Central Bank of Nigeria fined the bank, and public trust dipped.

Over the past decade, this same Bank, a major player in Nigeria’s financial sector and a subsidiary of an international Bank Group, has faced mounting scrutiny for a pattern of regulatory violations. In 2023 alone, the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal fined the bank over ₦100 million for failing to reverse a failed instant payment transfer, contravening consumer protection laws. This incident was just one in a series of compliance failures. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) previously imposed over ₦1.5 billion penalty for the bank’s role in issuing irregular Certificates of Capital Importation —an act that exposed critical weaknesses in Nigeria’s foreign exchange monitoring regime. Additional infractions have included late rendition of regulatory returns, failure to report export proceeds, and breaches of Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. These repeated violations paint a troubling picture of internal controls, particularly in a country where regulatory enforcement remains inconsistent.

Perhaps most strikingly, this same bank has reportedly paid upwards of ₦50 billion in cumulative penalties over a five-year span, including fines for non-compliance with directives on customer complaints resolution. Such systemic issues have eroded public trust, particularly as the bank continues to position itself as a custodian of investor capital and pension assets. In a financial landscape essential to Nigeria’s industrial aspirations, the reputational damage from regulatory sanctions underscores the urgent need for ethical banking standards. Institutions like this bank, which are instrumental to capital mobilization and economic infrastructure, must be held to the highest levels of accountability—not only to protect consumers, but to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s financial system.

The Lagos High Court Justice’s court has since attracted criticism for a series of rulings perceived to favor financial giants at the expense of everyday citizens. Critics argue that such judgments undermine the very fabric of ethical finance—impartiality, due process, and customer protection.

When financial institutions align themselves with opaque practices and are shielded by compromised judicial systems, industrialization becomes a feeding ground for the elite, not a pathway for inclusive growth.

In an examination of contrasts and consequences, the differences between the Singaporean and Rwandan models on one hand, and Nigeria’s erratic institutions on the other, are stark. Where Singaporean judges are shielded from political influence and Rwandan officials are held accountable to anti-corruption benchmarks, Nigerian institutions are often captured by vested interests.

Ethical leadership in industrialization means more than building factories or attracting investment. It involves ensuring that those investments are guided by fairness, subject to laws that protect all stakeholders, and directed toward public good—not private gain.

Oyo State, through Seyi Makinde’s measured leadership, shows that integrity is possible even within the Nigerian context. But the contrast with figures like this Federal High Court Justice in Lagos State, and with institutions like this notorious bank that face allegations of unethical conduct, serves as a cautionary tale.

In conclusion, citizens must demand ethics. Naming and shaming individuals is critical in situations where officials of a financial institution connive to steal customer collateral, commit perjury routinely by lying in court filings, the bank itself pilfers hundreds of millions in funds of hardworking customers, engaging compromised legal practitioners to twist facts in the hallowed temple of justice – this should find no place in our country – but the good news is this will not continue unabated. The masses have now found their voice.

Leadership alone cannot carry the burden of transformation. Citizens must demand and practice integrity in their spheres of influence—whether as public servants, entrepreneurs, or voters.

Singapore did not become a model of excellence by chance; it was built through decades of consistent citizen engagement and trust in governance. Rwanda rebuilt from genocide because its people supported ethical leadership over ethnic division. For Oyo State to fully industrialize, its people must embrace ethics as a daily creed.

Institutions must be transparent. Banks must be held accountable. Judges must dispense justice, not favors. And leaders—like Makinde—who walk the path of integrity must be supported and held up as models. Ethical leadership isn’t just a political ideal; it is the foundation upon which lasting industrial growth is built.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has withdrawn from all previous agreements aimed at resolving the Peoples Democratic Party’s internal disputes, in the ongoing crisis within the party.

In a statement titled “PDP Crisis: My Position”, personally signed by the minister, he accused fellow party leaders of betrayal and vowed to continue the struggle until justice is served.

Wike, a prominent member of the PDP, laid the blame for the party’s turmoil squarely on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who he described as the “architect of the party’s problems.”

According to the minister, the refusal to uphold agreements has been the major cause of disunity and instability in the party.

The statement recounted multiple high-level meetings held among PDP stakeholders, including Governors Makinde, Bala Mohammed, Umaru Fintiri, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, and others, in efforts to reach consensus on major issues.

Wike emphasised that critical resolutions—such as the reaffirmation of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary in line with the Supreme Court judgment—have been blatantly disregarded.

Wike further accused Makinde and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah of undermining those resolutions by pushing for the appointment of Ude Okoye and orchestrating an illegal NEC meeting through the Deputy National Secretary.

These moves, Wike said, directly violated the “gentleman’s agreement” and have worsened the party’s credibility.

The statement reads in part, “Since after the 2023 General election, the PDP has been wantonly swinging from one part of a slippery precipice to another, owing fundamentally to dishonesty and lack of trust amongst its key stakeholders.

“To stem this ugly trend, efforts have been made to arrest this pernicious virus of dishonesty and treachery and enthrone fidelity to agreements with a view to stabilizing the party and moving it forward.

“To this end, a meeting of the G5 was held in Lagos. In that meeting, I made it clear to the Governor of Oyo State, HE. Seyi Makinde, that he was the architect of our problems, pointing out to him that non-adherence to agreements reached was the bane of the party, and that he was the chief culprit of this anomaly. At the end of the meeting, we resolved to bury the hatchet and make progress.

“As a follow-up to the aforementioned meeting, there was an expanded meeting in Abuja involving HE. Seyi Makinde, HE. Umaru Fintiri, HE. Bala Mohammed, HE, Bukola Saraki, and I in Saraki’s guest house. In that meeting, I made it clear that I had no personal problems with HE. Bala Mohammed, except that he hides under the facade of Chairman of PDP Governors Forum to serially renege on agreements.

“Tensions rose mightily in the meeting and it took all concerned to calm frayed nerves. At the end of the meeting, we came to some resolutions, including: that Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the National Secretary of the PDP in tandem with the Supreme Court judgement, all legal matters relating to Rivers State must be withdrawn by the National Legal Adviser, the suit on the State of emergency be withdrawn forthwith, and nobody should deviate from the agreements so reached.

“In the light of the foregoing, they pleaded with me to attend the stakeholders’ meeting at the Bauchi Government Lodge, regardless of my many engagements. I attended the meeting and clearly reiterated my earlier concerns, and to this end and in order to resolve all other lingering and pending issues, a committee was formed, headed by HE. Bukola Saraki.

“It is disheartening to note that even before the Bukola Saraki Reconciliation Committee began its work, the gentleman’s agreement we reached at Saraki’s Guest House was already being crudely violated.

“To my chagrin, Seyi Makinde had connived with Peter Mba of Enugu State to orchestrate the summoning of the meeting of so-called South-East leaders to recommend that if Ude Okoye was not adopted as Secretary, they would pull out of the PDP. I have since granted an interview to the effect that, that resolution of the South-East leaders cannot hold.

“Again, Seyi Makinde organized some people in the National Secretariat to insist that the Deputy National Secretary should act as National Secretary, in violation of the agreement earlier reached. To attempt to give credence to this farce, a letter was written by the Deputy National Secretary, calling for a meeting of the NEC of the party.

“Furthermore, the letter confirming the candidacy of the Governorship candidate of the party in the forthcoming Governorship elections in Anambra State, duly signed by the National Secretary, Senator Anyanwu and the acting National Chairman, was portrayed as rejected by the party through a rebuttal letter signed by the National Publicity Secretary, acting on the orders of Seyi Makinde and Peter Mba. All these actions are in complete violation of the agreements reached and would not do the party any good whatsoever.

“On the 24th of May 2025, in Jos, for instance, a well publicized and properly attended zonal elective congress of the PDP was aborted because the letter inviting INEC to the congress was signed by the Deputy National Secretary of the party.

“INEC refused to attend because the proper signatory recognized by law, that is Senator Samuel Anyanwu was not a signatory to the invitation notice. This is undeniably distasteful, provocative and annoying, to say the least.

“I have painstakingly put out all these facts so that PDP members and the general public would know the truth. I have been in this party since 1998 and have worked tirelessly for the survival of this party with all my strength and it is on record that none of these persons have done anything close to what I have done to sustain this party. What is more painful is that I contributed substantially to most of these governors winning their elections, yet I have not made any personal demands on any of them and I would never do so.”

“Most importantly, I had thought that we could keep the trust amongst us, but since it is now obvious that they would continue to play games to the detriment of the party, as is the case in the current debacle in the North-Central zonal elections, I have now firmly decided to pull out of all agreements hitherto reached. I have decided to fight on until justice is attained,” he said.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of chairmen and members for governing councils/boards of tertiary institutions in Oyo State.
According to a letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, those appointed are:
Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate
1 Comrade Olusegun Oyewumi Chairman
2 Alhaji Badmus Tajudeen Tunde Member
3 Mr. Bamise Alabi Member
4 Saliu Alao Jimoh Member
5 Babarinde Sunday Ademola Member

Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igboora
1. Dr. Amusan Damilare Gideon Chairman
2. Alhaji Salami Lateef Adebayo Member
3. Mr Oseni Abolade Olosun Member
4. Dr Adekunle Onile Member
5. Mr. Kareem Adesina Rashid Member
6. Dr Saheed Adetunji Ige Member
7. Mr. Joseph Oladapo Olaoye Member
8. Mr Babatunde Akeem Member

The Polytechnic Ibadan, Ibadan
1 Prof Lanre Nassar Chairman
2 Prince Adeleke Akinboye Ajala Member
3 Prof. Odunola Olaitan Olutayo Member
4 Prof. (Engr.) Mudasiru Lateef Owolabi Member
5 Mr. Abduljelili Sunmonu Member
6 Engr. Tajudeen Bello Olori Member
7 Mr Ogungbe Oludele Tunji Member
8 Mrs Eniola Lucy Bola Member

The Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki
1 Dr Bisi Ojebola Chairman
2 Mrs Mojisola Olufunmilayo Ajayi Member
3 Mrs Bose Morakinyo Member
4 Adeyanju Noah Olusola Member
5 Hon. Olajide Olusina Olatoye Member
6 Mr Mudasir Niyi Salaam Member

Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan
1 Dr Ganiyu Ajadi Chairman
2 Mrs Dolapo Dosumu Member
3 Fatai Usman Bolaji Member
4 Mr Bodunde Adeosun Member

The governor, while congratulating the new appointees, counseled them to see their appointment as a call to service.
The appointments are with immediate effect.

Harnessing Oyo’s Agricultural Potential: A Catalyst for Industrialisation

While many recall their university days through lecture halls and late-night study sessions, my memories are steeped in the rich, earthy aroma of soil and the rhythmic hum of agricultural innovation. Growing up on the University of Ibadan campus, I was immersed in a world where agriculture wasn’t just a subject—it was a way of life. My father, Professor Gideon Olajiire Adeoye was at the forefront of this world, a distinguished Professor of Agronomy and Organic Agriculture who just turned 80 – a milestone that had me reflecting on the rich agricultural legacy of Oyo State and my father’s legacy as father of Organic Agriculture in sub-saharan Africa.

In those years back in Parry Road where we resided on the campus of the University of Ibadan, we generated biogas for our domestic cooking from locally sourced cow dung in UI Teaching and Research Farm and water hyacinth from Oba Dam – and the effluents or substrates were then released into the backyard for plant nutrition – talk about being carbon neutral. As Secretary-General of the Soil and Plant Analytical Laboratories Network for Africa (SPALNA) for over a decade, Mm Dad’s work made me familiar with esteemed institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Nigeria Horticultural Research Institute (NiHort) all in Oyo state.

Evenings were often spent at IITA’s International House (I-House), where the day’s work was followed by snacks, a game of lawn tennis with the late Dr. Jesse Machuka, and then swimming—a testament to the balance of hard work and relaxation in the world of agricultural research.

The sight of impeccably white ‘jeeps’ or Land Cruisers with proud corps diplomatique number plates, often sponsored by the Japanese or Canadian governments in support of nigeria, and the presence of private jets and guest houses across the African continent, painted a picture of an organization where agriculture was both functional and beneficial to society. On the flip side, my mother’s Doctorate thesis was in soil-chemistry focused on the clean-up of lead pollution in the environment using phyto-remediation – although she is otherwise a Medical Pathologist by training.

These experiences were not mere childhood fantasies; they were the realities of my life and the foundation of my understanding of agriculture as a dynamic and impactful sector. Today, as I witness the continued growth and innovation at IITA, led by esteemed scientists like my twinie, Dr. (Mrs.) Titi Falade – with whom I share the same birthday; and Dr. Debo Akande (Executive Adviser to His Excellency Seyi Makinde and Deputy Director General of IITA), it is clear that the legacy of excellence in agriculture continues to thrive – and gratefully so, in Oyo State.

Over the past six years, Oyo State has made significant strides in transforming its agricultural sector, positioning itself as a model for agribusiness development in Nigeria. Under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde, the state has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at modernizing agriculture, enhancing food security, and fostering economic growth. The establishment of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) has been pivotal in driving these changes. OYSADA has facilitated several million dollars in blended international agribusiness funding, leading to the development of agribusiness industrial hubs such as the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub and the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) supported by the African Development Bank. These hubs have attracted investments from companies like Brent Farm, Rontol Ltd, and Psaltry International, contributing to several billions of investments across the agricultural value chain.

In addition to infrastructure development, the state under his leadership has focused on empowering farmers through various programs. The Tractorisation Subsidy initiative, has subsidized ploughing costs for smallholder farmers, with over several thousands of acres of farmland mechanically ploughed, thereby enhancing productivity and encouraging the adoption of mechanized farming methods. Furthermore, OYSADA has digitized the data of over tens of thousands of farmers, facilitating targeted interventions and policy-making. The state has also invested in rural infrastructure, including the construction of roads like the Moniya-Iseyin arterial road, to improve access to markets. These comprehensive efforts underscore Oyo State’s commitment to agricultural transformation and economic development. But we must not rest on our oars – much remains to be done.

Agriculture: The Backbone of Oyo State’s Economy

Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of Oyo State’s economy. The state’s fertile lands support the cultivation of crops such as cassava, yams, cocoa, maize, and plantains. Despite this abundance, the sector’s potential remains underutilised, particularly in value-added processing and industrial-scale production.

For instance, Oyo’s Oke-Ogun region is one of Nigeria’s top cassava-producing areas. However, much of the cassava is sold in its raw form, missing opportunities for processing into products like cassava flour, garri, and ethanol. Similarly, the state’s cocoa industry remains heavily dependent on raw exports, with minimal local processing into products like chocolate and cocoa butter.

This brings to focus, the foresight and investment of HE Seyi Makinde in inaugurating the Iseyin Campus of the college of Agriculture of Ladoke Akintola University under the leadership of Professor Ayodeji Omole, Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council and the Vice Chancellor Prof Rom Kalilu.

The Path to Industrialisation: Integrating Agriculture with Industry

Industrialisation involves creating a robust value chain where raw materials are processed into finished goods for the global market. In Oyo State, agriculture can play a pivotal role in this transformation by integrating with manufacturing, technology, and services.

1. Agro-processing: The Missing Link

Agro-processing refers to the transformation of raw agricultural products into consumable or usable goods. By developing processing plants in areas that are hubs for certain crops, Oyo State can add significant value to its agricultural products. For example, Oke-Ogun could be transformed into an agro-processing industrial zone, where products like cassava, cocoa, maize, and palm oil are processed and packaged. These products could then be marketed both within Nigeria and internationally, leading to job creation and increased income for farmers.

A strong agro-processing industry in Oyo State would attract investors in industries such as food processing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, creating a broad industrial ecosystem that could drive the state’s growth.

2. Leveraging Technology and Innovation in Agriculture

Modern agriculture is not just about plowing the fields—it involves innovation and technology. Oyo State must embrace modern agricultural technology to increase productivity and efficiency in farming. This can be achieved through:

Smart irrigation systems: Using modern water management techniques to optimise crop yield in the face of climate change.
Drones and satellites: For monitoring crop health, detecting diseases, and mapping out farm areas.
Precision farming techniques: Using data analytics to determine the optimal times for planting, fertilising, and harvesting crops, which will increase yields and reduce waste.
Investment in agricultural research and development (R&D) is key to modernising the sector. Agri-tech startups can be incentivised to innovate in areas like crop genetics, sustainable farming, and food safety.

3. Establishing Agricultural Clusters and Hubs

Creating agricultural clusters can focus on specific products such as cassava, cocoa, or palm oil, bringing together farmers, processors, and marketers under one umbrella. These hubs should include:

Modern processing factories: That can transform raw agricultural products into high-value goods.
Logistics and transportation networks: That make it easy for farmers to get their products to markets quickly and efficiently.
Research and development facilities: That continuously innovate and improve farming techniques.
By focusing on creating such clusters in different regions of Oyo, the state can attract investment and create a robust supply chain that benefits everyone involved—from farmers to factory workers to marketers.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

As Oyo State embarks on its agricultural industrialisation journey, it must also be conscious of the environmental impact of industrialisation. Sustainable farming practices, responsible water use, and eco-friendly agro-processing are key to ensuring long-term growth.

For example, organic farming could be promoted in Oyo, where farmers are incentivised to produce crops without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals. By tapping into the global demand for organic produce, Oyo could attract a premium market and enhance its agricultural exports.

Case Studies: Rwanda and Singapore

Rwanda: From Subsistence to Agro-Industrial Ambitions

Rwanda’s journey towards agricultural industrialisation is a testament to strategic vision and policy-driven transformation. Agriculture, contributing approximately 29% to the national GDP, employs around 70% of the population, predominantly in rural areas . The government’s Crop Intensification Programme (CIP) aims to shift from subsistence to commercial agriculture, focusing on crop specialization and land use consolidation .

However, challenges persist, including land scarcity due to high population density and fragmented holdings. Despite these hurdles, Rwanda’s commitment to modernising agriculture is evident in initiatives like the Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain (ACES), launched in 2020, to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food security .

Singapore: Urban Innovation and Agricultural Resilience

Singapore, with its limited arable land, has embraced technological innovation to bolster food security. The “30 by 30” initiative aims to produce 30% of its nutritional needs locally by 2030, focusing on high-tech farming methods such as multi-storey hydroponics and aquaculture .

This approach reflects Singapore’s broader industrialisation strategy, which includes attracting foreign investment, enhancing workforce skills, and developing infrastructure to support high-value industries .

Call to Action: What Citizens Can Do Today

Support Local Farmers: Purchase locally grown produce to encourage sustainable agricultural practices.
Invest in Agro-processing: Entrepreneurs and investors should explore opportunities in agro-processing sectors like cassava, cocoa, and palm oil to add value to Oyo’s agricultural products.
Advocate for Agricultural Innovation: Promote the adoption of smart farming technologies and sustainable practices to enhance productivity and environmental stewardship.
Partner with Government: Engage with government programmes focused on agriculture and industrialisation to collaboratively develop solutions that benefit all stakeholders.

Conclusion

The path to industrialisation in Oyo State is intricately linked with the growth and modernisation of its agricultural sector. By focusing on agro-processing, innovation, and sustainable practices, Oyo has the potential to not only become a major agricultural producer but also a leading industrial hub in Nigeria and Africa. With concerted effort, the state can unlock its agricultural potential, creating jobs, boosting exports, and fuelling its industrialisation agenda.

Oyo State’s agricultural future is bright, and it is time for every citizen, investor, and stakeholder to play a role in cultivating this potential.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye

Despite swift actions taken by the Oyo State Government and House of Assembly in suspending local government chairmen over allegations of misconduct in recent times, the lingering silence on serious allegations against the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, is raising concerns among political observers and stakeholders.

Six elected councillors in Oluyole Local Government recently levelled weighty allegations against the chairman, accusing him of mismanagement of council funds, land racketeering, abuse of office, and bypassing the legislative arm in key decision-making processes. The councillors, in a widely circulated petition, claimed that efforts to carry out their oversight responsibilities have been frustrated by the executive chairman, who allegedly runs the council in disregard of due process and transparency.

What has baffled many is the silence of the Oyo State House of Assembly and the executive arm of government, especially considering their past decisive steps in similar cases. Not too long ago, the Assembly suspended the Chairman of Oyo East Local Government, Hon. Olusola Oluokun, following a viral video that cast his conduct in bad light. Also, other council chairmen have faced disciplinary action over various allegations deemed to undermine the integrity of local governance.

Observers now wonder why the case of Engr. Akeem Olatunji appears to be treated differently, despite the petition being in the public domain and the issues raised bordering on financial impropriety and abuse of public trust.

Stakeholders are therefore calling on Governor Seyi Makinde and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, to act without delay. They insist that the allegations by the six councilors deserve proper investigation not just to establish the truth, but to also show that accountability and integrity are not selective.

The longer the silence lingers, the more it fuels speculation of political shielding, which could erode public confidence in the government’s commitment to transparency and justice at the grassroots level.