Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has urged residents to renew their commitment to unity, civic responsibility, and peaceful coexistence, declaring that the task of building a greater Oyo State rests jointly on government and the people.
In his New Year message to the state, released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor said 2025 stretched the resilience of citizens but also strengthened the foundations for accelerated growth in 2026.
Makinde noted that government can provide leadership, vision, and policy direction, but lasting progress will only be achieved when citizens remain productive, law-abiding, and supportive of development initiatives.
He thanked the people of the state for their trust throughout the past year, describing 2025 as “demanding yet ultimately defining,” adding that although Oyo faced economic, security, and environmental pressures, “we were tested, but we were not broken.”
The governor outlined major milestones recorded by his administration, including the commissioning of landmark infrastructure projects across Ibadan as well as the push on the 110-kilometre Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, which he described as a transformational economic corridor that will open new investment hubs, ease transportation, and expand job opportunities.
He stated that the state’s agenda of moving from a consumption-based economy to a production-driven one made significant strides with the 2025 Oyo State International Agribusiness Summit and the International Tourism Summit, events he said positioned the state as a rising investment destination.
Makinde added that Oyo enjoyed relative peace during the year despite nationwide security concerns.
Reflecting on the past year, Makinde said the difficulties of 2025 compelled innovation and discipline in governance, paving the way for what he called a “decisive leap forward” in 2026.
He emphasised that the recently signed 2026 Budget of Economic Expansion is designed to stimulate growth, create jobs, and deepen infrastructure development.
According to him, navigating hard times demands steady leadership anchored on principles.
He said his administration deliberately chose “process over shortcuts, stability over populism, and consistency over noise,” insisting that those choices are beginning to yield results.
On economic diversification, the governor highlighted ongoing reforms in agribusiness aimed at linking farmers to markets and investors to opportunities, while also reaffirming tourism as a growth pillar capable of generating revenue, preserving heritage, and attracting global attention.
Makinde acknowledged security and environmental challenges recorded during the year but assured residents that coordination among security agencies had been reinforced, with improved emergency response systems to protect lives and property.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, he said salaries continued to be paid on or before the 25th of every month, alongside the 13th-month bonus in December.
Makinde appealed to residents to sustain their support for government policies and remain united, saying, “2025 tested our resolve; 2026 will reward our preparation.” He prayed for peace and prosperity for all households and wished the people of Oyo State a happy New Year.
