In a spirited address at the Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on September 25, 2024, Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State, emphasized the importance of collaboration in shaping the 2025 budget and introduced the ambitious Agenda 2040.
“I welcome you all to the first in the series of Stakeholders Consultative and Town Hall Meetings in preparation for the 2025 Budget. This is the sixth series we will be holding since we assumed office in 2019.”
Makinde acknowledged the drastic changes in the economic landscape over the past five years, citing the challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidies and currency exchange rate fluctuations. “As a subnational operating within this system, we have taken certain actions to lessen the burden on our people.”
Highlighting the ongoing Sustainable Actions for Economic Recovery (SAfER), he stated, “We have also worked at ensuring the implementation of the 2024 budget. At this time, we have achieved 53% implementation. You will all agree that we can do more.”
The governor called for public input, saying, “We have always said that government does not know it all, so when we come to you, we expect to get a deeper understanding of your pains and how best to use the budget to alleviate those pains.”
Addressing the need for empathy in governance, he remarked, “We are living in very tough economic times… But we must remain empathetic to the plight of our people.”
Discussing innovative solutions, Makinde proposed a program inspired by Brazil’s Fome Zero: “We can have digital food vouchers distributed to the vulnerable with which they can redeem food from designated food sellers.”
He also suggested job creation initiatives based on the Ethiopian model to provide short-term employment opportunities.
“We should also be looking at working with the private sector to drive more inclusive agribusiness programmes and youth trainings,” he added.
In conclusion, Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Oyo State: “So, we keep working, we keep asking for your prayers so that we can lead right as we renew our pledge to continue to put you first in our decisions.”
