The Oyo State Executive Council has approved ₦63.4 billion for the complete reconstruction of the Government House, describing its current condition as embarrassing and unfit for use.
Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, made the disclosure on Tuesday, stating that the decision aligns with preparations for the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations next year.
“For six years, the Governor and his deputy have lived in their private homes due to the deplorable condition of the official residences. The reconstruction will be a lasting legacy of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration,” Oyelade said.
He added that the banquet hall would be completed ahead of the jubilee celebration, while the broader project represents a renewal of state infrastructure and dignity.
The Council also approved ₦131.75 million for the hiring of professional gardeners to manage the green spaces and surroundings of the upgraded Government House.
Oyo to Upgrade Airport, Launch Agro Market
In another development, the Council approved ₦14.29 billion for the procurement and installation of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, aiming to raise it to international standards.
“The previous ILS installed by the Nigerian Government was damaged. Oyo State will now fund and install a new one within six months,” Oyelade confirmed.
The airport, which was closed in March 2025 for major upgrades, including the runway and terminal, is scheduled to reopen by year-end. The international terminal is projected for completion in June 2026, pending federal approvals.
To boost agricultural trade, the Council approved the initial payment for the €2 million Ijaiye International Agro-Food Market, a joint project with Paris-based Semmaris and the African Development Bank (AfDB), which has issued a certificate of no objection.
The Council also granted a ₦130 million take-off fund to the newly created Oyo State New Towns and Cities Development Authority, tasked with easing urban congestion and curbing slum formation.
Other Approvals:
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Hosting of the second Oyo State International Tourism Summit in July 2025
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₦270.85 billion addition to the state’s 2025 supplementary budget to support the completion of strategic projects aligned with the government’s development roadmap.