By Eniola Philip
Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritising the needs and aspirations of citizens in the formulation of the state’s annual budget, maintaining that his government will continue to adopt a bottom-up, inclusive approach to development.
Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget, held on Thursday at Ogunlana Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the governor stated that the participatory process, which began in 2019, has contributed significantly to improved budget performance and long-term development planning in the state.“Coming here every year is not to fulfil all righteousness. We are here to listen, to engage, and to align our budget with the real priorities of our people,” Makinde said.
The consultative session drew commendations from development partners including UNICEF, the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), all of whom applauded the state government for its transparent, people-focused governance model.
Makinde explained that shortly after assuming office, his administration decoupled the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning from the Ministry of Finance to ensure clearer planning, improved fiscal discipline, and alignment of spending with public priorities.
He noted that since then, the state has recorded consistent improvements in both budget performance and service delivery, citing examples such as major road infrastructure projects — including the Moniya–Iseyin, Iseyin–Ogbomoso, and Oyo–Iseyin roads — which have connected rural communities and helped curb rural-urban migration.
“Our people now have ownership of their own budget. We’re not just building roads or schools; we’re building institutions that will outlast this administration,” the governor stated.
He also revealed that technical colleges in the state are undergoing reforms to produce skilled artisans with certified vocational training, aligning education with economic needs.
Addressing political developments ahead of 2027, Governor Makinde hinted that a member of his current team may be presented as a potential successor, but stressed that the ultimate choice would rest with the people of Oyo State.
“If we put anyone forward, it means that individual aligns with our roadmap for development. But this is not about personalities. The people of Oyo State will decide, and they will ask the hard questions,” he said, adding that the era of “stunt politics” is over in the state.
In response to stakeholder demands, Makinde pledged to include the ₦32,000 minimum pension in the 2026 budget, assuring retirees that his government remains committed to their welfare.
He also committed to continuing key infrastructure projects such as the Iwo Road–Osun boundary corridor and announced plans for a social safety net targeting women and vulnerable groups in 2026.
On the issue of increased state revenues highlighted by the Federal Government, Makinde countered that “what matters is not how much is received but how well it is used,” adding that Oyo State is working to create an enabling environment for private investment.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, highlighted that the state achieved 71.5 per cent budget performance in 2024, and 2025 is already showing strong results, with 80.86 per cent revenue performance and 68.9 per cent expenditure performance between January and June.
Representatives of UNICEF, DAWN Commission, the NLC and other civic bodies praised the state for its transparency, inclusiveness, and leadership in development governance.
“Oyo State under Governor Makinde has shown consistency, accountability, and openness — qualities that encourage development partners like us to keep investing here,” said Mohammed Okori, UNICEF representative.
Mr. Seye Oyeleye, Director-General of DAWN Commission, and Comrade Kayode Martins, NLC Chairman in Oyo State, also commended the governor for running a truly people-centred administration and for placing premium on workers’ welfare.
The event was attended by prominent figures including former Deputy Governors Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi and Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, Chief Judge of Oyo State Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented), Secretary to the State Government Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Chief of Staff Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, Head of Service Mrs Olubunmi Oni, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, labour leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations.
Governor Makinde urged citizens to actively participate in the upcoming zonal stakeholder meetings across the state’s seven geopolitical zones, emphasising that their voices will shape the final 2026 budget document.
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