Oyo former Commissioner for Works and Transports, Prof. (Engr.) Abdulrahman Raphael Afonja, Ph.D., PMP, F.NSE, F.ASCE, R. Engr., CEP, CESCO, also known as PARA, has expressed his support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s proposed ₦63 billion renovation and reconstruction project for the Government House with the aim of restoring the facility to its former glory.
According to Afonja, the project is not just necessary but overdue, and it’s the right move for Oyo’s long-term progress.
He noted that the project, which will be executed in phases, will prioritize local contractors, artisans, and workers, thereby creating jobs and circulating money within the state’s communities.
In a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Saturday, the former Commissioner and US trained Engineer argued that the facility has been neglected for decades, with crumbling buildings, outdated security systems, and inadequate infrastructure.
This neglect, Afonja noted, has impacted the safety and efficiency of public institutions and also shapes the first impression of Oyo State for investors, federal officials, and international partners.
He believes the renovation project is necessary and will improve the safety and efficiency of the Government House, while also restoring pride in the state’s public institutions.
The Ogbomoso born politician, who equally noted that the project will involve structural repairs, modern security and IT upgrades, sustainable energy solutions, and making the complex accessible to everyone, said the state government has promised transparency and accountability in the execution of the project, with every contract and major expense to be published for public scrutiny.
He justified the approval of ₦63.4 billion for the project, attributing it to the fluctuating exchange rate. He cited the recent ₦39 billion spent on renovating the International Conference Centre in Abuja as an example of how the fluctuating exchange rate can impact project costs.
Afonja urged citizens to support the project, citing its potential to restore Oyo’s dignity and set a new standard for public infrastructure and transparent governance.
He also commended Governor Makinde for his leadership and good governance, and encouraged citizens to stay informed with the present economic reality.
The statement read in part: “As someone who cares deeply about the future of Oyo State, I understand the concerns and tough questions surrounding the Governor’s proposed ₦63 billion renovation and reconstruction of the Government House. The figure grabs attention, especially in these challenging economic times. But I believe this project is not just necessary—it’s overdue, and it’s the right move for Oyo’s long-term progress.
A Question of Necessity, Not Luxury
“Let’s be honest: for decades, our Government House—the very heart of Oyo’s administration—has been left behind. The buildings are failing, the security systems are outdated, and basic infrastructure is stretched to its limits. When investors, federal officials, or international partners visit, their first impression of Oyo is shaped by the state of this facility. We simply can’t afford for that impression to be one of decline or insecurity.
“This renovation is not about luxury. It’s about safety, efficiency, and restoring pride in our public institutions. We’re talking about structural repairs, modern security and IT upgrades, sustainable energy solutions, and making the complex accessible to everyone. Ignoring these problems will lead to even bigger expenses down the line and risks the safety of our leaders and guests.
Economic Benefits for Our People
“I hear the worries about how this spending fits with our annual budget and internally generated revenue. Here’s the plan: The project will be executed in phases, so it won’t overwhelm the state’s finances or crowd out essential services like healthcare and education. Local contractors, artisans, and workers will be prioritized every step of the way. This means jobs for Oyo people and money circulating within our communities—not leaving the state.
Transparency and Accountability—Every Step of the Way
“Let’s face it, skepticism is justified. Government projects haven’t always delivered in the past. That’s why I fully support the Governor’s commitment to transparency. Every contract and major expense will be published for the public to see. Progress and expenditure reports will come out quarterly. Civil society groups and independent monitors will have access to oversee the process. Feedback channels will be open, and whistleblowers protected.
A Strategic Investment in Our Future
“This isn’t just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about laying the foundation for a better Oyo—one that’s ready to welcome investors, host national conversations, and make its mark on the world stage. A well-maintained Government House signals that we take ourselves seriously, and that others should too.
Let’s Do This—Together
“I know people are watching closely, and I welcome that scrutiny. We should all demand the highest standards from our government. But I also urge you to see this project for what it is: a strategic, phased investment in the future of Oyo State. Let’s hold our leaders accountable, but let’s also support bold moves when they are needed.
“This is our chance to restore Oyo’s dignity and set a new standard for public infrastructure and transparent governance. I stand firmly behind the Governor’s proposal, and I invite every citizen to stay informed, ask questions, and join in building the Oyo State we all deserve.”
