Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has restated his resolve to serve the people of the state diligently until his final day in office.
He made this known on Thursday during the public presentation of two books titled “Giant Strides” and “Ibadan Hegemony,” as well as a Yoruba film “Agbeni,” all authored by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola. The event took place at the Emeritus Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, University College Hospital, Ibadan.
Makinde explained that the books and film highlight the culture and historical evolution of Ibadanland, aligning with ongoing efforts to seek knowledge that can advance the race and improve the welfare of its people.
He praised the author for his commitment to documenting history through the publications and the film, which he said would greatly benefit future generations.
The governor said, “I promised the people of Oyo state that I will work for them till the last moment of the last day.”
He referred to challenges that had arisen in governance, using the Circular Road corridor as an example, noting that leadership often requires guiding people to the right decisions, even when those choices may be unpopular.
Makinde recalled advice he received regarding historical resistance to major reforms, emphasising how lessons from the past should inform present decisions.
While celebrating Oba Ajibola’s accomplishments, the governor encouraged others with meaningful stories “about our people, culture and race” to follow the monarch’s example by documenting their experiences.
He added that the books being launched provide valuable insights into how progress can be achieved and how understanding history helps avoid repeating past mistakes.
Makinde then unveiled the books and film with a contribution of N10 million and urged the public to support the initiative.
In his goodwill address, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, reflected on his long-standing relationship with Oba Ajibola and commended his resilience in producing works that preserve the heritage of Ibadanland for future generations. He also encouraged residents to continue contributing to the state’s development.
Speaking on his inspiration, Oba Ajibola said his goal was to enrich knowledge, educate the public, and share how insights from the past can guide the future.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; former Minister of Trade and Investment, Chief Mrs. Onikepo Akande; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; Chairman of Oyo State Local Government Chairmen, Hon. Sikiru Oyedele Sanda; Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole; Engr. Dotun Sanusi; and Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, among others.