A Nigerian professional group in the Diaspora, the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his achievements in office as Oyo State marked its 50th anniversary, describing his leadership as transformational and people-centred.

In a statement issued after the week-long golden jubilee celebrations, OID said the anniversary events were the biggest in the state’s history, showcasing Oyo State’s rich heritage, developmental strides, and future aspirations, while strengthening unity and pride among its citizens.

The group noted that the milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey since its creation and the remarkable progress recorded under Governor Makinde’s administration, stressing that his accomplishments compare favourably with those of past administrations.

OID also paid tribute to the founding fathers and mothers of Oyo State, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience in laying the foundation for the state’s growth and development.

In the statement signed by Ayotomiwa Adebayo, its spokesperson, the Diaspora group commended Governor Makinde’s people-centered approach to governance, integrity in public service, and commitment to sustainable development across critical sectors.

It said the administration has recorded measurable progress in economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, security, agribusiness, renewable energy, and civil service reforms.

The group particularly highlighted the prompt payment of workers’ salaries and pensioners’ gratuities, noting that fiscal discipline, accountability, and transparency have remained hallmarks of the Makinde-led administration.

According to OID, Governor Makinde’s people-focused governance has restored public confidence in government and repositioned Oyo State as a viable destination for investment and innovation. The group described his leadership style as a beacon of hope for the foreseeable future of Nigeria, adding that it offers a model for good governance at both state and national levels.

“The 50th anniversary celebration was not only a remembrance of Oyo State’s past but also a strong statement of how far the state has come under Governor Makinde. His administration has redefined governance and laid a solid foundation for long-term prosperity,” the statement said.

OID further noted that the governor’s inclusive leadership has ensured that development reaches both urban and rural communities, describing Oyo State as one of the most attractive states in the country to live, work, and invest in.

The group congratulated the people of Oyo State on the golden jubilee and urged residents to remain united, rise above differences, and continue supporting the Makinde-led administration in consolidating existing gains to secure a stronger and more prosperous future for the state.

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha is the Aviation Correspondent at BusinessDay Media Limited, publishers of BusinessDay Newspapers. She is also the Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Weekender Magazine, the Saturday Weekend edition of BusinessDay. She holds a BSC in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a Masters degree in Marketing at the University of Lagos. As the lead writer on the aviation desk, Ifeoma is responsible and in charge of the three weekly aviation and travel pages in BusinessDay and BDSunday. She also overseas and edits all pages of BusinessDay Saturday Weekender. She has written various investigative, features and news stories in aviation and business related issues and has been severally nominated for award in the category of Aviation Writer of the Year by the Nigeria Media Nite-Out awards; one of the Nigeria’s most prestigious media awards ceremonies. Ifeoma is a one-time winner of the prestigious Nigeria Media Merit Award under the 'Aviation Writer of the Year' Category. She is the 2025 Eloy Award winner under the Print Media Journalist category. She has undergone several journalism trainings by various prestigious organisations. Ifeoma is also a fellow of the Female Reporters Leadership Fellowship of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism.

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