Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents that the gains of his administration will be sustained beyond the end of his tenure in May 2027, noting that members of his team who have delivered good governance are well positioned to continue the work in different capacities.

The governor said his administration remains committed to governing the state in line with God’s will and guidance, adding that his government has laid strong foundations to prepare Oyo State for its next phase of development.

Governor Makinde made these remarks on Sunday during a Thanksgiving Service held at the Cathedral of St Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State.

Speaking at the service, Makinde congratulated residents on witnessing the state’s golden jubilee, describing the milestone as a product of God’s grace. He reflected on his emergence as governor in 2019 after eight years of political struggle, attributing his success to divine mercy and describing his administration as a “new beginning” for the state.

He stressed that continuity of good governance is assured, noting that while he will leave office in 2027, his team remains intact and committed to serving the people.

“I want to congratulate all of us for witnessing Oyo State at 50. When I became governor in 2019, I was the eighth civilian governor, and in the Bible, eight signifies a new beginning. This journey has truly been a new beginning for Oyo State,” he said.

Makinde also reiterated that he has no political godfather, stating that his leadership is guided solely by God. He urged residents not to lose focus or return to past mistakes, but to remain committed to progress as the state moves forward.

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, commended Governor Makinde for his leadership style and the transformation of Ibadan and Oyo State at large.

Obi described Ibadan as a historic city of knowledge and hope, noting the visible improvements in infrastructure and governance under Makinde’s administration. He praised the governor for using public funds for public good and urged Nigerians to continue praying for political leaders to govern with integrity.

“Nigeria is not a poor country, but a poorly governed one. What Governor Makinde is doing in Oyo State shows what is possible when leaders serve the people faithfully,” Obi said.

In his sermon titled “Gratitude,” the Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, thanked God for Oyo State’s progress over the past 50 years and commended past leaders who contributed to its growth. He also praised Governor Makinde for people-oriented programmes that have improved infrastructure, workers’ and pensioners’ welfare, and peaceful coexistence in the state.

Special prayers were offered for the governor, Oyo State, Nigeria, and for the emergence of a worthy successor who will ensure the continuity of good governance.

The event was attended by the wife of the governor, Engr Tamunominini Makinde; wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke; former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.