Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has called on the people of Oyo and Nigerians at large to remain hopeful as the nation celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary. In his address, which was broadcast on the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Makinde reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to improving their welfare, especially in light of ongoing economic challenges.
Makinde emphasized that his government is focused on taking decisions that will positively impact the lives of the people, and as such, he announced several new initiatives to ease economic difficulties.
New Loan Guarantor System for Farmers
A key highlight of his speech was the immediate change in the guarantor system for the state’s agricultural credit loans. Previously, small-scale farmers seeking loans from the Agricultural Credit Corporation of Oyo State needed civil servants as guarantors. However, this policy has now been revised to accommodate guarantors from community development associations, farmers’ groups, and artisanal associations.
“This Independence Day, we reaffirm our commitment to making decisions that serve the best interests of the people of Oyo State,” Makinde stated. “We are making it easier for small farmers to access agricultural loans by expanding the pool of eligible guarantors beyond civil servants.”
The governor noted that this change would provide more opportunities for small farmers to access much-needed financial support, further boosting agriculture in the state.
Makinde also announced the extension of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) Transport Scheme for an additional six months. Under this scheme, transportation fares on Omituntun Buses, which operate within and between cities in the state, are subsidized by more than 50%.
In addition to the existing subsidies on passenger transportation, the governor introduced a new subsidy for trucks transporting agricultural produce within the state. He explained that this would help reduce the cost of moving farm produce, directly benefiting small-scale farmers and traders.
“We recognize the burden transportation costs place on farmers and traders, especially those transporting crops across the state,” Makinde said. “This new subsidy will ease that burden and ensure that food can be moved more efficiently.”
These measures, the governor noted, were designed to reaffirm his administration’s focus on improving the lives of Oyo’s citizens during these challenging economic times.
During his Independence Day speech, Makinde emphasized the need for unity, urging residents to focus on what binds them together rather than their differences. “Now is not the time to emphasize what divides us. We must hold fast to the things that unite us—our shared identity, our culture, and our history,” he said.
He stressed that the ongoing economic and social challenges should not lead people to turn against each other, but instead, they should be used as an opportunity for deeper reflection on how to move the state and country forward.
“Let us always remember who our real enemies are, so we do not turn against our friends,” Makinde added, urging citizens to use this period of celebration to reflect on how to foster a better future for the country.
Makinde also reassured residents that security remains a top priority for his administration. As part of efforts to ensure a peaceful celebration, the governor mentioned that there would be an increased security presence across the state. He encouraged residents not to be alarmed by the heightened security, as it is intended to protect them during the festivities.
“The security of our people remains our top priority,” Makinde said. “During your celebrations, you may notice an increased security presence. They are there to ensure your safety and guarantee a peaceful celebration.”
He further reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in the state, believing that this is one of the most effective ways to build a stronger state and nation.
As Nigeria marks its 64th year of independence, Governor Makinde urged the people to remain hopeful despite the difficulties of the present. He highlighted the importance of looking towards the future with optimism and a focus on making meaningful changes.
“So, as we celebrate Nigeria at 64, let us not dwell on the difficulties of the present,” the governor said. “Instead, let us use this period to reflect on what we can do differently so that the future of our nation will be better than the past.”
Makinde concluded his speech by encouraging the people to remain hopeful, noting that the challenges Nigeria faces today can be overcome with determination and collective effort. “Let us focus on the real hope that lies ahead,” he added.
With these new initiatives and his call for unity, Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to uplifting the people of Oyo and ensuring their welfare during this crucial period in Nigeria’s history.
