Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents that his administration will intensify efforts to improve their well-being and ease economic hardships in 2025. Speaking in his New Year message aired on the state-owned Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), as well as during a Crossover Service at Livingspring Chapel International, Ibadan, the governor emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his mandate and improving lives.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde highlighted plans for several transformative projects in the New Year. These include upgrading the Ibadan Airport in Alakia to international status, completing the first segment of the Ibadan Circular Road, and increasing public education and enlightenment initiatives.
The governor also stated that his administration would enforce the rule of law across various sectors and implement stricter measures against traffic offenses to enhance public safety.
Governor Makinde acknowledged that 2024 tested the resilience of Oyo residents due to economic difficulties and tragic incidents. Despite global and national economic challenges, including inflation that reduced spending power and pushed more people into poverty, the governor noted that his administration had made strides in improving the state’s economy.
“We faced economic challenges and social tragedies that tested us almost to the limit. Yet, even in mourning and hardship, we are thankful for the progress we have made,” he remarked.
The governor recalled key tragedies, such as the Bodija explosion in January 2024 and the Islamic High School stampede in December, which claimed 35 young lives. He said these incidents prompted his administration to review its policies and implement proactive measures to prevent a recurrence. The signing of Executive Order 001, 2024 on the Safe Handling and Storage of Harmful Substances, was one such measure.
Despite the difficulties of 2024, Governor Makinde highlighted efforts to position Oyo State as an economic hub. Initiatives included:
– Attracting significant investors like Africorp Consortium and Shell Nigeria Gas.
– Completing and commissioning the first phase of the Independent Power Project in partnership with Elektron Energy.
– Commencing the construction of the second agribusiness industrial hub in Eruwa.
The governor affirmed that these initiatives were part of his government’s strategy to improve the private sector’s viability, thereby creating more opportunities for residents and driving sustainable economic growth.
Looking ahead, Governor Makinde pledged to focus on increasing residents’ spending power and addressing economic strains. He also emphasized the importance of public education and awareness, promising to use technology and communication tools to ensure that citizens are well-informed about government policies and responsibilities.
“We will do more for our people, be less reactive, and more proactive,” he said. “We will take decisive actions to uplift Oyo residents and provide lasting solutions to economic and social challenges.”
Governor Makinde concluded by urging residents to remain supportive of his administration and assured them of a positive turnaround in 2025. “We are thankful for the opportunity to see a New Year. Together, we look forward to a prosperous 2025,” he added.
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