 in Samonda, Ibadan){kind=link}
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde officially unveiled the Late Prince Olaide Akinremi Jagaban Government Reserved Area (GRA) in Samonda, Ibadan, immortalizing the legacy of the late All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, who represented Ibadan North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2019 until his death on July 10, 2024.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring that Akinremi’s contributions to the constituency and the state are remembered for generations to come.
The unveiling ceremony, held along Dominion University Road, Samonda, Ibadan on Wednesday, witnessed a gathering of notable personalities, community leaders, and public office holders. Governor Makinde was represented at the event by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal, who highlighted the depth of the late lawmaker’s impact on his people and the importance of commemorating such legacies.
“Today’s event is of profound significance. I recall the day in July 2024 when the governor received the sad news of Jagaban’s passing from Abuja. The governor immediately remarked that Ibadanland had lost a true gem,” Deputy Governor Lawal stated.
He further explained that Governor Makinde firmly believes that immortalization should go beyond monetary or material gestures—it should involve creating something lasting and beneficial to society. This belief inspired the dedication of the Samonda land for the construction of a housing estate in Jagaban’s honour, symbolizing the enduring mark he left on the community.
In addition to the unveiling of the GRA, Deputy Governor Lawal reassured the public that the roads linking the estate to Sango would be fully rehabilitated. “The governor is committed to ensuring that the infrastructure surrounding the estate meets high standards. Work is already ongoing, and residents can look forward to smooth and safe access to the area,” Lawal added.
Governor Makinde, through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, also noted that the ongoing reconstruction of the UI-Samonda Road linking Sango/Poly Road would soon be completed.
This improvement is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and promote easier access to commercial, educational, and residential areas in Ibadan.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Oluseun Olufade, praised Governor Makinde for honouring a distinguished son of Ibadan North. He encouraged other public office holders to learn from the governor’s gesture, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of leaders who serve their communities with distinction.
The Chairman of the Day, High Chief Akinade Fijabi, also commended the governor for his infrastructural achievements and inclusive governance style, noting that his administration’s projects transcend political affiliations and contribute to the general welfare of Oyo State residents.
Speaking on behalf of the Akinremi family, Abideen Akinremi expressed deep gratitude to Governor Makinde for the continuous support extended to the family since the late lawmaker’s passing. “We are truly honoured by this gesture. Our family will always remember Governor Makinde’s commitment to preserving Jagaban’s legacy and ensuring that his contributions to Ibadan North are never forgotten,” he said.
Governor Makinde’s decision to immortalize Prince Olaide Akinremi Jagaban through the creation of a dedicated GRA reflects a broader commitment to celebrating impactful leaders and providing tangible legacies that benefit communities long after their passing.
The project is expected to include all necessary infrastructure and amenities, positioning it as a model estate and a lasting tribute to one of Ibadan North’s most respected public servants.