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By Oscar Okhifo
In what has been described as a major facelift to mark Oyo State’s forthcoming 50th anniversary, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has approved a massive ₦63.4 billion for the total renovation and upgrade of the State Government House in Ibadan, State’s airport and others.
The approval was granted at the State Executive Council meeting which held on Wednesday.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the decision was long overdue as the Government House and other critical state’s facilities had fallen into very deplorable state.
“For the past six years, the Governor and his deputy have had to operate from their private residences due to the embarrassing condition of the official quarters. This renovation is aimed at restoring the dignity and status of the Government House as befits the state,” Oyelade said.
The scope of work includes complete structural rehabilitation, modernization of facilities, and landscaping of the entire premises.
A new banquet hall is also part of the design, with plans to complete it in time for the 50th anniversary celebration slated for 2026.
In addition to the Government House upgrade, the State’s Executive Council also approved several other major projects aimed at positioning the state as economic hub of the Southwest.
These include the procurement and installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport at a cost of ₦14.3 billion. This, when completed will enable the airport handle international flights.
₦131.7 million for the hiring of professional gardeners to maintain the new landscaping designs around the renovated Government House.
₦130 million as take-off grant for the New Towns and Cities Development Authority, which is expected to develop new urban centres and ease congestion in Ibadan.
Advance payment of €2 million for the construction of an International Agro-Food Market at Ijaiye, in partnership with the African Development Bank and a Paris-based firm, Semmaris.
The Commissioner noted that a supplementary budget increase of ₦270.8 billion for the 2025 fiscal year would be sent to the State House of Assembly to ensure timely completion of these projects.
He emphasized that the Makinde administration is very determined to leave behind a legacy of modern infrastructure and sustainable development before the expiration of his tenure.
There has been mixed reactions among residents over the cost of the projects. Although Government officials insist the investments are necessary to transform Oyo into a more competitive and economically viable state.