Makinde inaugurates dualised road, wants more state autonomy
Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on the Federal Government to grant more autonomy to states in their developmental pursuits.
The governor according to Punch, said that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work in a country as diverse as Nigeria.
Makinde made the call on Friday, at the inauguration ceremony of the dualized 12.5-kilometre Challenge—Odo Ona Elewe-Ellebu-Apata Road in Ibadan, a project that he said was tailored to suit the unique needs and resources of the state.
The governor said that allowing states to leverage their resources effectively would promote competition, innovation, and enhance national development.
He also urged his fellow governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to adopt strategies aimed at expanding the economic base of their states rather than merely redistributing existing resources.
He announced the extension of wage awards for state workers by an additional six months, following earlier measures to cushion the effect of the removal of oil subsidies by the federal government.
The governor was commended by his counterpart from Enugu State, Peter Mbah, who was the special guest of honour at the event.
Mbah praised Makinde’s leadership and vision, and stressed the importance of infrastructure in driving economic growth.
He urged political leaders to prioritize projects that have positive impact on national development.
The road inauguration ceremony also featured remarks from the Commissioner for Public Works and Transport in Oyo State, Professor Dahud Sangodoyi, who gave an overview of the road project and the administration’s commitment to completing strategic infrastructure projects.
The Federal Controller of Works in Oyo State, Mrs. Morounmubo Olarerin, confirmed Governor Makinde’s dedication to enhancing road infrastructure, while the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Niyi Ajewole, lauded the governor for his uncommon developmental strides.
