Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has approved the reconstruction of a critical 23-kilometre road linking Okaka to Igbojaye and the Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Film Village located in Komu, all in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state.
The approval, announced on Tuesday during the Hijrah 1447 luncheon organised by the state government at the Presidential Lodge, Secretariat, Ibadan, fulfills a promise the governor made during the commissioning of the KAP Film Village in April 2025. At the time, he had committed to enhancing rural infrastructure and boosting culture and tourism across Oyo State.
Speaking at the event, Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s resolve to complete all ongoing projects and deliver on its developmental agenda under Omituntun 2.0. He expressed his desire to “finish strong” as the administration enters its final 22 months.
“We may have done well for the past six years, but we want to finish strong in the next two years,” the governor said. “By the end of September, this government will not commit to any major project again. Whatever project we commit to, we will see them through. We do not want to leave any uncompleted or abandoned projects.”
Governor Makinde also used the occasion to appeal to residents of the state to intensify their support, prayers, and constructive criticism. He acknowledged the positive role the people of Oyo State have played in the government’s success over the years, especially in fostering peace, security, and prosperity.
“Your advice and prayers have carried us through difficult times. That is why Oyo State remains a peaceful and progressive state,” he stated. He added that residents should continue to hold the government accountable and remind it of its promises.
Reflecting on the Hijrah celebration, Governor Makinde emphasized its spiritual and social significance, stating: “We are not just celebrating for the sake of it, but because God has sustained our lives to see another year. And if that is the case, we must always do our best for our state.”
He also reaffirmed his personal connection to the Muslim community: “I have Muslim blood in my veins. We talk of religious tolerance, good deeds, perseverance, and all that. But what we need now are more prayers and guidance from our people.”
In fulfillment of earlier commitments made during the last Omituntun Ramadan Lecture, the governor presented two new buses—one to the Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland and another to the state’s Muslim community.
The Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the Muslim Ummah and commended the governor for consistently supporting the annual Hijrah celebration. He acknowledged the administration’s inclusivity and promotion of interfaith harmony.
Guest lecturer at the event, Sheik Dikrulahi Yaya, lauded Governor Makinde’s developmental strides and urged Muslims to emulate the lessons of Hijrah in their daily lives.
Also speaking, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola—represented by Sheik Muyideen Alkubroh—called for sustained prayers and support for the Makinde-led administration.
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, commended the governor’s leadership style and dedication to infrastructure and social development. He praised the administration for its role in his ascension and urged residents to continue promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.
Dignitaries at the luncheon included a former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi; members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Stanley Olajide and Hon. Shina Oyedeji; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice T.M. Abdulganiyu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni; Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere; Prof. Kamil Oloso; Labour union leaders; and members of the League of Imams and Alfas, among others.
