On Thursday, Governor Seyi Makinde said that his government has built a modern Oyo State, attracting more investors and businesses in significant corridors of the state.
He promised to continue to create a conducive and enabling environment for investors with great ideas to move the state forward, irrespective of political affiliations or differences.
The governor also maintained that the state government would continue encouraging youths, noting that Nigeria’s future rests on its youth.
Governor Makinde stated this while commissioning the Omoluabi FM in Ibadan.
He said that the number of radio stations he met on the ground has nearly tripled due to his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive.
He said, “In the past three weeks, this is the second radio station we will declare open. On the 27th of December, I declared the Dynasty FM Station in Oyo, owned by the Ajisafes. And today, we are declaring Omoluabi 87.7 FM open.
“When this administration came in, we met roughly 20 radio stations and moved to almost triple the number we met on the ground.
“One unique thing about this place is the youthful staff and management. It is extremely important to us, and it is an opportunity for you guys to set the tone.
“I started my business at the age of 29, and I have been paying salaries rather than receiving since then. I am now 56. So, it is an avenue for you to prove that the future of Nigeria, indeed, is the youthful population, because you have the energy and the intellect. So, in Oyo State, we will continue encouraging our youths.”
The governor lauded Chief Sunday Dare, the founder of the radio station and former Minister of Youth and Sports, for his heavy investments in the business and stated that his government would continue to encourage investors.
He added that the state government would provide adequate security and lighting around the area.
According to Governor Makinde, political differences should not be allowed to affect businesses negatively.
He urged political loyalists to embrace peace and stop creating political wars among politicians, stressing that no politician is worth dying for.
“I am glad to be here to support my brother, and it has nothing to do with politics.
“We will continue to create a conducive atmosphere where we can all interact, irrespective of party affiliations. Government and players will come and go, but our state will remain.”
Speaking earlier, Chief Dare thanked the governor and the government for their support while setting up the radio station and for embracing privatisation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Manager of the radio station, Mr. Stephen Adedigba, said the station is a youth-driven initiative and that it would uphold integrity.
The event had a former deputy governor of Oyo State, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, and former Oyo State House of Assembly speakers, Rt. Hon. Akin Onigbinde (SAN) and Rt. Hon. Asimiyu Niran Alarape; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo; Head of Service, Mrs Bunmi Oni; and commissioners, among other top government functionaries.
