In his New Year broadcast, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde outlines plans for tough decisions in 2024, with a focus on delivering prosperity for residents.
Encouraging continued support, he emphasizes the government’s efforts in key sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, and mining.
Governor Makinde calls on residents to join hands in enforcing the rule of law, underscoring the importance of a lawful and orderly environment for investments to thrive.
He acknowledges the challenges faced in the past seven months, citing the removal of fuel subsidy and the peg on the Naira to dollar exchange rate, which impacted the economy.
Highlighting the administration’s proactive measures, Makinde references the Sustainable Actions for Economic Recovery (SAfER) program.
This initiative provided immediate relief to the poorest populations through food packages, extended support to pensioners and civil servants, and introduced low-interest loans for various sectors.
As the governor crosses the halfway mark of his term under Omituntun 2.0, he assures the public that the administration is built to handle challenging times. The forthcoming 2024 Budget of Economic Recovery aims to reinforce reforms introduced to secure the state’s economy further.
Looking ahead, Makinde anticipates the completion of significant road projects, including the Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Road and the Ido-Eruwa Road.
The administration plans to reconstruct and rehabilitate feeder roads across Oyo State, while also commissioning the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub and initiating work on the Eruwa Agribusiness Industrial Hub.
The governor expresses optimism about revenue generation from the solid minerals sector and completing the first Independent Power Project (IPP).
Additionally, he looks forward to welcoming investors into the tourism sector by revitalizing cultural centers and attractions like the Ibadan Cultural Centre, Agodi Gardens, Eleyele Lake, and the Iyake Lake in Ado-Awaye.
Governor Makinde concludes by seeking residents’ collaboration in implementing the rule of law, acknowledging that enforcing laws might involve challenging decisions.
He envisions Oyo State as a safe and secure destination for investors and tourists, urging collective efforts for positive change in 2024.