Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed satisfaction with the positive impact of his administration’s interventions to support the populace under the ongoing Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery
project.

According to the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Makinde noted that, unlike other states, his administration will persist in assisting the poorest and most vulnerable across all local government areas of Oyo State. This commitment is a direct response to the hardships experienced following the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The commissioner made these disclosures on Wednesday in a statement issued to newsmen in Ibadan.

“Operational routes for the 55 buses currently transporting commuters have increased from 31 to 39, with over 30,000 commuters benefiting from a 50 per cent reduction in fare daily. Additionally, the physically challenged, school children, the elderly, and civil servants continue to enjoy free transport services,” Oyelade said.

“This was one of the resolutions at the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday,” he added.

Oyelade further revealed that the governor has approved the acquisition of 50 additional luxury buses to complement the existing fleet of 55.

“The 50 extra buses will be deployed ahead of the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations next year,” he stated.

The Commissioner also noted that the Council approved further support for food security and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which includes subsidised tractor facilities, credit funds for the Oyo State Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project (YEAP) and smallholder farmers, as well as low-interest loans for artisans, traders, and small businesses. These initiatives amount to ₦4,787,468,000.

“To enhance efficiency within the civil service, the Council approved Virtual Digital and Soft Skills Training for 2,175 civil servants at a cost of ₦367,540,000,” Oyelade added.

He also mentioned that the Council approved a review of the costs for two ongoing projects: the bus terminal developments at Iwo Road, New Ife Road, Challenge, and Ojoo, alongside the construction of modern monumental structures at Dr Omololu Olunloyo Park, with a combined budget of ₦8,536,415,000.

On security matters, Oyelade disclosed that the Council endorsed ongoing discussions between the government and the military to occupy the Old Oyo National Park, aiming to curb terrorist activities and illegal mining within the enclave.