Economic expert Olatunji Smith Balogun has commended the Governor of Oyo State, Mr Seyi Makinde, for triggering an infrastructure boom aimed at transforming the state into a prime destination for foreign investors.
Balogun, while speaking on the state’s economic evolution, noted that crucial projects such as the construction of the Ibadan Circular Road and the upgrading of Ibadan Airport to international standards were strategic masterstrokes.
He stressed that only a deeply visionary leader possessed the foresight to invest in capital projects that guaranteed long-term global economic benefits for Ibadan and Oyo State at large.
Drawing strength from history to validate Governor Makinde‘s long-term governance approach, Balogun drew a profound historical parallel to his late father, Dr Ganiyu Kolawole Balogun (GKB), who served as the first pioneer chairman of the Ibadan Municipal Government (IMG) from 1976 to 1979.
“When my late father started road construction across Labiran and Oke-Are, he faced heavy criticism and blame from short-sighted detractors. Decades later, those roads are still actively in use, serving the public and keeping our people happy. Today, Governor Makinde faces similar battles for thinking ahead. Ibadan residents and the people of Oyo State at large must be deeply grateful for a leader who builds for the future rather than just today.”
