The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, has stated that the empowerment of over 500 youths with start-up capital in Oluyole Local Government Area would reduce the unemployment ratio in the state.
Lawal made this known at the presentation of start-up capital to the beneficiaries at Oluyole Local Government headquarters, Idi-Ayunre.
He described Olatunji’s initiative as “a game-changer for Oluyole Local Government,” adding that it complements the state government’s ongoing efforts to empower its people and drive economic growth.
“Olatunji has set an example for how a local government can create impactful change at the grassroots. This is the kind of initiative Oyo State needs to tackle unemployment and build a sustainable economy,” the Deputy Governor said.
He congratulated the graduates and beneficiaries of the start-up equipment, urging them to utilise what they have received to become self-reliant and productive members of society.
Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, in his remarks, commended Olatunji for providing not only vocational training but also the essential tools and resources to help the graduates start their own businesses.
Describing Olatunji’s administration as a typical example of how a local government administration should run and directly impact grassroots residents, Ogundoyin, who doubles as the chairman of the Nigeria Conference of Speakers of State Legislators, urged other local governments in the state to emulate Olatunji’s approach to governance.
He also lauded the achievements in Oluyole, describing the local government’s performance as a clear example of effective governance at the grassroots level.
Ogundoyin emphasised the importance of a strong local government system in spreading the dividends of democracy to the people.
“This is clear evidence of good governance at the grassroots, and when local government administration is strong, it ensures that democracy benefits everyone. We are very impressed with your performance, and you are setting a great example for others,” Ogundoyin said.
He also praised Engr. Akeem Olatunji for his leadership, noting that his work as chairman has been exemplary and motivating for others in the House of Assembly and at the Conference of Speakers.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, expressed his satisfaction with the development within Oluyole, highlighting that the local government’s performance was evidence of good governance.
Ojo also emphasised that the success of the local government was a direct result of the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, whose administration has prioritised infrastructure development, social welfare, and other key sectors in Oyo State.
“We owe everything to our principal, the governor of the people, His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde. He is the type of governor we have never seen before in Oyo State, and for the past six years, he has continued to perform tremendously well,” Ojo stated.
Ojo further pointed out that the visible transformation in Ibadan, particularly in Oluyole, was a clear reflection of the positive changes taking place under the present administration. “Ibadan is one of the oldest cities in Nigeria, but look at what is happening here today. You can see it with your own eyes,” he added.
Earlier in his goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Adeniran, also praised Olatunji for his outstanding performance. He specifically highlighted the positive relationship between Oluyole Local Government and SUBEB, which has led to improvements in the local education system.
Adeniran emphasised the importance of the local government taking an active role in supervising public schools, noting that the success of the educational system at the grassroots depends on such collaboration.
“The synergy between the local government and Oyo SUBEB is commendable. I urge local government chairmen to see SUBEB as their own and work together for the betterment of the education sector.
“I also encourage individuals and corporate organisations to adopt public primary schools as part of their corporate social responsibility,” Adeniran said.
In his welcome address, Engr. Akeem Olatunji expressed his gratitude for the support of the state government and reiterated his commitment to work towards empowering his people at the grassroots for sustainable economic growth. He encouraged the graduates to make the most of the opportunities before them and work diligently to build sustainable businesses.
While noting that the ceremony was merely what he called the tip of the iceberg, Olatunji assured that many other similar activities have been lined up for the coming year in the second phase.
“Today, we are not just handing out equipment; we are giving you the keys to your future. The path to success requires hard work, determination, and the willingness to learn. I believe in your potential, and I am confident that you will make a positive impact on society.
“I want to state categorically here that the support of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for us at the grassroots has demonstrated beyond all reasonable doubt his good intentions to take Oyo State out of the present economic crisis in Nigeria, and I’m proud to be his political disciple.”
Former executive chairman of Oluyole LG and a leader in the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Abass Aleshinloye, who was an awardee for his contribution to the development of Oluyole LG, also expressed his happiness at the progress made in the council.
Reflecting on his past experience in the council, Aleshinloye praised Olatunji for his efforts in revitalising the local government and ensuring its continued development. He also commended the Speaker for his outstanding contribution to the development of Oyo State, particularly his recent presentation at the Ajimobi Roundtable on the autonomy of state legislatures.
Aleshinloye also encouraged Olatunji to continue engaging with the people, urging him to take into consideration feedback from the community as part of the governance process.
“If people are clapping for you, continue doing well; if there are complaints, listen to them and review your approach. But for now, you’re doing very well,” Aleshinloye remarked.
Present at the event were members of the Oyo State House of Assembly: Hon. Rahaman Olorunpoto, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, and Hon. Babalola Abiodun; leader of PDP in Oluyole LG, Dr Gbola Adetunji; wife of the executive chairman, Hajia Balkis Olatunji; Vice Chairman, Hon. Niyi Akorede; Chief of Staff, Hon. Azeez Babalola; Party Chairman, Alhaji Mukaila Adegbola; HLGA, Alhaja Kudirat Noibi; leader of Oluyole Legislative House, Architect Salam Azeez; councillors; SAs; local government party executives; and others.
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