Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has downplayed concerns that the end of his administration in 2027 would disrupt governance in the state, insisting that the reforms and policies being implemented would outlive his tenure.

The governor stated this on Sunday while speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, as part of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Oyo State.

Responding to increasing political rhetoric and criticism from opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections, Makinde said his government was built on a strong institutional framework rather than the personality of the governor.

He stressed that only his term in office would come to an end, while the political and administrative team driving the state’s development agenda would remain intact.

“It is only Seyi Makinde that will leave office in 2027. The team is still here and ready to continue working for the people of Oyo State,” the governor said.

Makinde added that his administration would continue to operate under divine guidance, noting that governance in the state remains people-centred and purpose-driven.

“We will keep governing in line with the will and direction of God for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.

The governor’s remarks were greeted with applause by the congregation, which included senior government officials, political leaders, religious figures and other dignitaries from across the state.

Reflecting on the state’s 50-year journey, Makinde said Oyo State’s progress had been shaped by careful planning, continuity in governance and collective effort, adding that his administration had deliberately focused on building systems that would endure beyond his tenure.

According to him, his government has prioritised institutional development, infrastructure expansion, economic growth and human capital development, rather than creating dependency on any single individual.

Makinde urged residents of the state to remain focused and not be distracted by what he described as fear-driven political narratives, assuring them that the achievements recorded so far would be sustained after 2027.

He also appealed to political actors to place the interest of Oyo State above personal ambition, stressing that peace, stability and continuity are essential for long-term development.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has downplayed concerns that the end of his administration in 2027 would disrupt governance in the state, insisting that the reforms and policies being implemented would outlive his tenure.

The governor stated this on Sunday while speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, as part of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Oyo State.

Responding to increasing political rhetoric and criticism from opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections, Makinde said his government was built on a strong institutional framework rather than the personality of the governor.

He stressed that only his term in office would come to an end, while the political and administrative team driving the state’s development agenda would remain intact.

“It is only Seyi Makinde that will leave office in 2027. The team is still here and ready to continue working for the people of Oyo State,” the governor said.

Makinde added that his administration would continue to operate under divine guidance, noting that governance in the state remains people-centred and purpose-driven.

“We will keep governing in line with the will and direction of God for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.

The governor’s remarks were greeted with applause by the congregation, which included senior government officials, political leaders, religious figures and other dignitaries from across the state.

Reflecting on the state’s 50-year journey, Makinde said Oyo State’s progress had been shaped by careful planning, continuity in governance and collective effort, adding that his administration had deliberately focused on building systems that would endure beyond his tenure.

According to him, his government has prioritised institutional development, infrastructure expansion, economic growth and human capital development, rather than creating dependency on any single individual.

Makinde urged residents of the state to remain focused and not be distracted by what he described as fear-driven political narratives, assuring them that the achievements recorded so far would be sustained after 2027.

He also appealed to political actors to place the interest of Oyo State above personal ambition, stressing that peace, stability and continuity are essential for long-term development.