On this auspicious occasion marking the 58th birthday of His Excellency, Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, I join millions of well-meaning citizens, partners in development, and lovers of good governance in Oyo State and beyond to celebrate an engineer and real architect of modern Oyo state whose life has been devoted to public service, leadership, and the pursuit of progress for the good people of Oyo State over the last 6 years.
Today is not merely a celebration of 58th birthday of Engr Seyi Makinde, but a celebration of impact, vision, and enduring commitment to the common good.
As a founder of Beulah Adeoye Foundation, a non-governental organisation, which is deeply involved in grassroots development and as a gubernatorial aspirant committed to the future of our state, I acknowledge with profound respect the responsibilities you bear and the sacrifices you have made in steering the affairs of our dear state.
Leadership, especially at this level, is never an easy task. It requires courage in decision-making, patience in adversity, humility in power, strong will and dedication to the welfare of the people.
Beyond rhetoric and cosmetic impact, Engr Makinde has continued to demonstrate exceptional qualities that connect and transform 5 zones in Oyo State, even in the face of economic constraints, social pressures, and evolving governance challenges.
Engr Makinde’s tenure has been marked by deliberate efforts to strengthen institutions, improve infrastructure, and promote policies aimed at social inclusion and economic growth. From investments in education and healthcare to interventions in agriculture, security, youth empowerment and ambitious infrastructure like Ibadan Circular Road, Engr Makinde’s administration has continued to lay foundations that will shape the destiny of generations to come. While no leadership journey is without its challenges, history often remembers those who dared to act, rather than those who chose convenience over courage.
As someone who works closely with vulnerable communities through civil society initiatives, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of responsive governance and people-centred policies. It is encouraging to see a growing recognition of the role of partnerships between government, NGOs, and the private sector in driving sustainable development. These collaborations remain vital as we collectively confront issues such as unemployment, poverty alleviation, education access, healthcare delivery, and community security.
Oyo Governor’s birthday presents an opportunity for reflection—not only for the celebrant as a leader, but for all of us who aspire to serve. It reminds us that leadership is a continuum, built on lessons learned, successes recorded, and mistakes corrected. It reinforces the truth that governance is ultimately about people—their hopes, their struggles, and their aspirations for a better tomorrow.
I draw inspiration from the importance of continuity, innovation, and inclusive leadership. Our shared commitment to the progress of this state transcends political differences and personal ambitions. What binds us is the collective desire to see Oyo state that works for everyone—a state where opportunity is not determined by background, where governance is transparent and accountable, and where development reaches the last community in Oorelope LGA without undermining the one in the Ido LGA sharing boundary with Ogun State.
On this special day, I pray that Almighty God grants Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde renewed strength, wisdom, and good health to continue serving Oyo State with clarity of purpose. May your remaining years in public life be filled with impactful decisions, lasting legacies, and moments of fulfillment. May you continue to lead with courage, guided by conscience, compassion, and an unshakeable belief in the potential of our people.
Your Excellency, may history remember you as a leader who served Oyo State with dignity, vision, and a genuine desire to leave the state better than you met it.
On behalf of Beulah Adeoye Foundation, our volunteers, partners, and the countless citizens who believe in a future anchored on good governance and sustainable development, I wish you a very happy birthday sir. May this new year usher in peace, progress, and continued service to humanity.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency, and many more years of purposeful leadership.
Amofin Beulah Adeoye
President, Beulah Adeoye Foundation
