Distinguished gentlemen and ladies of the press, my fellow indigenes of Oyo State, progressive youths, indefatigable students, ladies and gentlemen. I greet you warmly.

As many of you know, good governance is a collective effort; one that requires partnership between the government and the governed, and multi-party partnerships, as it is in the case of Nigeria, and Oyo State in particular. In addition, the best form of governance is achieved and made successful when constituted leadership is conscious and articulate of the needs and demands of society. This involves creating conducive environment for the thriving of all groups and sectors, inclusion of individuals regardless of identity affiliations, and ensuring a comprehensive sync of quality efforts and ideas towards moving governance forward for the benefit of the citizenry. The administration of Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, has demonstrated a deep understanding of these tenets and approach of effective governance as it developed and is implementing the “OmiTutun 2019 Agenda”. The strategy of this administration presents a deviation from the status quo, showing a more progressive and 21st century approach to governance.

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I laud the appointment of Olubamiwo Adeosun as the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Oyo State. This appointment does not only change the rhetoric about women’s capacity in top-level governance in a democracy, it sheds light on the understanding of the Makinde Administration on the issues of Gender Sensitivity and Intersectionality – providing and ensuring equal opportunities for all gender to aspire, participate, and provide sustainable positive change in society. Her emergence as the SGS strengthens women voice agency across Oyo State, and empowers upcoming young people, especially females, to strive for the best and highest level and forms of education. Appointing a technocrat with a consistent track record of leading and institutionalising change demonstrates the determination of the current government to take Oyo State back on the pedestal of success, giving it a pedigree to compete favourably with other states in the South West and across the country. This new feat achieved in the governance history of Oyo State is one that will remain in the hearts of many citizens, and will be chronicled in the annals of time, thereby setting precedence for future governments in the State. The current administration said they meant business when they decided to take up leadership of Oyo state. They are truly acting out this resolve by putting together the right human resources to get the job of good governance done.

Also, the instruction to pay the salaries of civil servants, as well as benefits to pensioners on time and as when due gives credence to the administration’s understanding of “shared humanity”. It creates a deliberate platform to bridge class gaps and reduce rising levels of income inequality across the state. The attainment of effectiveness and commitment to duty, as well as true patriotism emerges when citizens perceive and enjoy the support of leadership. Integral human development is the development that considers the development of the “single person” and “the whole person”. This understanding of human development should prompt state actors to respect the humanity of workers and treat them right by ensuring that all the entitlements that helps them stay focused on their supportive roles in governance are provided. The “monthly mandate of 25th” for the payment of salaries to workers and pensioners is a clear revelation of purposeful leadership by the administration of His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State. You are redefining the face of governance in Oyo State and the entire South West, by adapting progressive and transformative leadership approaches toward institutionalising prosperity for all.

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As the OmiTutun 2019 Agenda rolls out implementation strategies, it is important to admonish and urge you to remain focused on the transformative plans that you have developed for Oyo State. Maintaining “strategic multi-party partnership” will be crucial to your success as the Leader of Oyo State. Naysayers and critics will emerge; however, let the interest of the people be your primary focus and motivation for action. As a concerned youth, I urge that you be not distracted but work across board to transform Oyo state, by reviewing and re-institutionalising reforms that will positively affect the lives of the people of the state. In your determination to make a difference in the state, you can be rest assured of the people’s support. As Obama averred: “if you’re walking down the right path and you’re willing to keep walking, eventually you’ll make progress.” Therefore, I urge you to continue to be the positive difference and new face of hope that Oyo State seeks.

Signed:
Comrade Oladoja Olushola
Aka Ladoja NANS