Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday affirmed that local governments in the state are functional and delivering tangible projects for the benefit of the people.
He made this statement while commissioning a 2km road, a newly constructed fire service station, shops, and an ultra-modern car park at Bodija International Market, Ibadan. The projects were executed by Ibadan North Local Government.
Governor Makinde, who named the car park after Ibadan warlord, Balogun Oderinlo, described the projects as clear evidence that local government councils in Oyo State are effectively discharging their constitutional responsibilities without interference. He added that the initiatives would boost commercial activities, improve the ease of doing business, and further strengthen the state’s economy.
Commending the Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Honourable Seun Olufade, for executing the projects, the governor urged traders in the market to continue supporting his administration’s vision for sustainable development. He assured that more infrastructure projects would be facilitated under his successor.
In his welcome address, Hon. Olufade expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for providing an enabling environment that allowed the council to successfully deliver the projects. He noted that the developments would improve transportation, enhance public safety, increase commercial activities, and further position Bodija International Market as a leading commercial hub in Nigeria.
He described the projects as further proof of the governor’s dedication to improving the lives of residents, calling them a testament to Governor Makinde’s enduring commitment to the people of Oyo State.
Also speaking, one of the contractors, Mr. Adekunle Akinpelu, commended the state government for addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges and improving safety in markets across Oyo State. He highlighted the construction of the fire station as a landmark achievement, noting that past fire incidents had led to significant losses of property and, in some cases, lives. The new facility, he said, would help prevent such tragedies and improve emergency response for traders and shoppers.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of Bodija Market and the Otun Iyaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaja Oyebamiji, thanked the governor for approving and supporting the construction of the projects. They emphasized that the infrastructure would provide greater comfort, safety, and convenience for traders and customers while promoting economic growth within the market and the state.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji Ismael Jimoh, expressed gratitude to the governor for the projects and for ensuring ease of doing business in the state.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Hon. Fola Oyekunle (Ibadan North Federal Constituency); Hon. Dikirulahi Olajide Odidiomo (Ibadan North West/Southwest Federal Constituency); Hon. Comforter Olajide (Ibadan North I State Constituency); Hon. Babajide Gabriel (Ibadan North II State Constituency); Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, PhD; Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Fasina, mni; Elder Wole Oyelese, Co-Chairman of the Elders’ Council, alongside other council members; Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Chairman of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State; Alhaji Y.K. Abass, Babaloja of Oyo State; market leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, among others.
