Governor Seyi Makinde has called on people of the state to strive for new Oyo State where love, unity and peace will reign irrespective of religion differences.
Governor Makinde who gave the charge while hosting Muslim Ummar at the 1446 Hijrah Luncheon, held at the Presidential lodge, Government house, Agodi Ibadan, said with people’s support, the state can surmount its challenges.
The Governor assured that he will constitute a committee before end of the week to actualize the upgrading of Ibadan Airport within 18 months adding that this will enable the state Pilgrims fly from Ibadan directly to holy land.
While commending Alhaji Azeem Atere led Muslim Welfare Board for a hitch free Hajj exercise and his efficiency in handling the board, Governor Makinde said his administration would continue to do things in the best interest of the state.
Earlier in his welcome address, Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, noted that the state is among the few States that had adopted holiday for celebration of Hijrah.
The Chairman of the occasion, former President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII, Chief Bayo Oyero, charged Muslim leaders and stakeholders to orientate Muslims on the significance of Hijrah as well as days of the Islamic calendar
In his lecture, Sheikh Muideen Najimdeen, described Governor Makinde as a leader Nigeria needed, adding that his life style is enough lecture to humanity.
In a goodwill message, Prof Kamil Olosho and other islamic scholars called on the federal government to declare a national public holiday for Muslims to mark the Hijrah calendar.
Present at the event which featured presentation of gift include ; former deputy governors, Speaker,Oyo State House of Assembly,Rt. Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin, Commissioners, service chiefs, religious and traditional leaders among others.
