Ibadan, Oyo State – In a spirited celebration of Oyo State’s 50th anniversary, the Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon. Shina Peller, has named Governor Seyi Makinde as the “Golden Governor.”
In a statement released on Friday, Peller reflected on the state’s journey since its creation from the old Western State in February 1976. He lauded the “Pacesetter State” for its historical role as a beacon of excellence in politics, education, commerce, and culture.
Also, Peller emphasized that the Golden Jubilee is a testament to the collective progress of the people across all zones, including the iconic brown roofs of Ibadan, the resource-rich Oke-Ogun, the royal plains of Oyo, and the vibrant communities of Ogbomoso and Ibarapa.
“This Golden Jubilee celebrates our resilience, unity, and progress,” Peller stated. “Fifty years of challenges and triumphs bound by common destiny and enterprise spirit,” he added.
Moreover, the former lawmaker noted that Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership coincides with this historic milestone, making him the “leader chosen by destiny” to usher the state into its next half-century. He cited several key achievements under the Omituntun administration as justification for the “Golden Governor” title:
According to Peller, Makinde’s tenure (2019–date) has been characterized by unprecedented development, specifically highlighting key areas like infrastructure, civil service welfare, youth inclusion in governance and institutional reform.
Speaking on infrastructure, Peller referenced the ongoing upgrade of Ibadan Airport to international status and the construction of the Circular Road to drive economic expansion.
Moreover. he lauded the consistent, timely payment of civil servants’ salaries and the historic initiation of the 13th-month bonus by the governor.
In addition, the Oke Ogun-born businessman cum politician highlighted the youth inclusion in Makinde’s government as another noteworthy act of the governor, adding that he provided tangible opportunities for the younger generation to participate in high-level governance, creating a new generation of leaders with the OMITUNTUN initiative.
He also commended the governor for his institutional reform, referencing his creation of robust institutions to ensure optimal performance and transparency.
Furthermore, Peller maintained that through the “Omituntun” initiative, the governor has successfully jettisoned the old “promise and fail” systems of the past, replacing them with a system built on trust and delivery.
Peller concluded with a prayer for the administration:
“I pray that God grants him wisdom and strength to steer Oyo state to greater prosperity. May this administration lay solid foundations for the next 50 years and beyond.”
