- Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is committed to economic stability.
- His administration ensures timely disbursement of N24 billion in monthly salaries.
- Regular salary payments have positively impacted the state’s economy.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to economic stability by ensuring the prompt disbursement of N24 billion in monthly salaries. He emphasized that this policy has played a crucial role in boosting the state’s economy.
Speaking on Sunday at the Eid-el-Fitri prayers held at the Eid Ground in Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde noted that the regular payment of salaries to state and local government workers has injected significant funds into the local economy, fostering business growth and attracting private sector investments.
Following the prayers, the governor addressed a delegation of Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, and political figures at his Ikolaba residence. The delegation was led by Deputy Governor Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal and included prominent personalities such as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja, and Professor Kamil Oloso.
Makinde disclosed that the state’s wage bill currently stands at N14 billion, while local government employees receive N10 billion monthly, making a total of N24 billion circulating within the state’s economy. He emphasized that this steady cash flow has significantly enhanced residents’ purchasing power and contributed to increased economic activities.
“Our goal is economic stability in Oyo State. Every four weeks, N24 billion is injected into the state’s economy through workers’ salaries. The wage bill for state workers is N14 billion, while that of local government employees is around N10 billion,” he stated.
The governor also underscored the growing confidence of private investors in Oyo State, attributing it to the stable economic environment fostered by his administration’s policies. He highlighted the ongoing development of a Farmers’ Wholesale Market at Ijaiye Farm Settlement, where the government has allocated 3,000 hectares of land for the project.
“On the private sector side, many investors now see Oyo State as a viable place to do business, and we have witnessed significant investments. Just yesterday, I visited the Ijaiye Farm Settlement to inspect the site for the Farmers’ Wholesale Market. The settlement spans 27,000 hectares, and we have designated 3,000 hectares for this project,” Makinde explained.
He further stressed the importance of peace and stability in fostering economic progress, urging residents to maintain the prevailing atmosphere of unity. Reflecting on past political divisions in the state, Makinde expressed gratitude for the current harmony, which he believes has contributed to development.
“In the past, political divisions disrupted our state’s progress, but today, we see a different picture. There is peace, and with it comes development. My hope is that we never return to those turbulent times. With patience, we can achieve our collective goals,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Senator Rashidi Ladoja encouraged Oyo residents to remain hopeful and steadfast in the face of challenges.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Lawal, addressing journalists after the Eid prayers, called on the Muslim community to uphold the values of kindness, love, and empathy. He also commended Governor Makinde for prioritizing workers’ welfare through consistent salary payments.
Professor Oloso led special prayers for the governor’s continued success, acknowledging his administration’s support for the Muslim community.
Makinde concluded by urging political leaders to remain committed to improving the welfare of their people, emphasizing that strong leadership and perseverance are essential in overcoming economic challenges and achieving progress.