IBADAN, Nigeria – Dr. (Mrs) Onikepo Akande, a two-time Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment for the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the esteemed Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland, has commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for the notable achievements of his administration, attributing them to his thorough preparation before assuming office.
In an exclusive interview with The People’s Verdict, a prominent media outlet, Akande highlighted Makinde’s strategic planning as the key factor behind his successes. “Governor Makinde’s level of preparedness has been instrumental in driving progress in Oyo State,” she stated, emphasizing how his proactive approach has translated into tangible results for the state’s residents.
Akande’s remarks come amid growing recognition of Makinde’s governance style, which has been marked by structured development plans. During his 2019 gubernatorial campaign, Makinde centered his platform on the Oyo State Roadmap to Accelerated Development 2019-2023, a comprehensive blueprint outlining key priorities such as infrastructure improvement, economic growth, and social welfare enhancements. This document served as a guiding framework, helping to streamline policies and initiatives once he took office.
Building on this foundation, Makinde’s 2023 re-election campaign was anchored by the Oyo State Roadmap to Sustainable Development 2023-2027. This updated roadmap focuses on long-term sustainability, addressing challenges like environmental conservation, youth empowerment, and inclusive economic recovery in the post-pandemic era. Akande noted that such forward-thinking documents demonstrate Makinde’s commitment to evidence-based governance, setting him apart in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As a respected figure in Nigerian politics and business, Akande’s endorsement carries significant weight. Having served as Minister during critical periods of economic reform, she is well-positioned to evaluate leadership effectiveness. Her comments add to a chorus of praise for Makinde, who has overseen projects such as road rehabilitations, healthcare upgrades, and agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
Governor Makinde’s administration has reported successes in these areas, including improved access to education and healthcare services, as well as efforts to attract investments. While some critics have pointed to ongoing challenges like security and inflation, Akande’s perspective underscores the value of pre-election planning in overcoming such hurdles.
This interview with The People’s Verdict has sparked discussions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for other leaders to adopt similar strategies. As Oyo State continues to implement its current roadmap, observers will be watching closely to see how Makinde’s preparedness continues to shape the region’s future.
The People’s Verdict has not yet released the full transcript of the interview, but it is expected to provide more insights into Akande’s views on national and state-level governance.
