Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents of Oyo State that the foundations laid by his administration will be sustained beyond the end of his tenure in May 2027, declaring that members of his governing team remain positioned to continue delivering good governance in different capacities.
Makinde gave the assurance on Sunday during a Thanksgiving Service to commemorate Oyo State’s 50th anniversary at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s, Aremo. He said his administration has governed with a clear sense of purpose and divine guidance, adding that the state is entering a new phase anchored on strong institutional and developmental frameworks.
Reflecting on his emergence as governor in 2019 after eight years of political contest, Makinde attributed his victory and subsequent achievements to God’s mercy, describing his administration as a “new beginning” for the state. He emphasised that continuity, rather than disruption, would define the post-2027 era.
“I want to congratulate all of us for witnessing Oyo State at 50,” the governor said. “God has been merciful to us, and we will continue to operate in accordance with His will for the people of Oyo State. The team is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde that will leave office; the members of the team are there to continue working for the people.”
Makinde urged residents to remain focused and committed to sustaining the progress recorded over the years, cautioning against a return to old governance practices. He maintained that his administration has deliberately built systems and institutions capable of outliving any single individual.
The golden jubilee celebration attracted notable dignitaries, including former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, who praised Makinde’s leadership and prudent use of public resources.
Obi commended the visible transformation of Ibadan, describing the ancient city as a centre of knowledge and hope whose outlook has significantly improved under Makinde’s administration. He noted that the governor has demonstrated how public funds should be deployed strictly for public good.
“Nigeria is not a poor country, but a poorly governed one,” Obi said. “Governor Makinde has shown that when leaders use public money for public good, development is inevitable. I urge Nigerians to continue praying for political leaders to do the right thing.”
Earlier in his sermon titled “Gratitude,” the Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, thanked God for Oyo State’s journey over the past five decades and acknowledged the contributions of past leaders. He also praised Makinde’s people-oriented policies, citing improvements in infrastructure, workers’ welfare, pension administration and peaceful coexistence across the state.
Special prayers were offered for the governor, the state, Nigeria and for the emergence of a worthy successor capable of sustaining the gains recorded so far.
The event was attended by the wife of the governor, Engr Tamunominini Makinde; senior government officials; lawmakers; traditional rulers; religious leaders; former public office holders; and other dignitaries from within and outside the state.