The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, has confirmed that Oyo State IGR is on track to reach a historic ₦100 billion in 2025, with reforms under Governor Seyi Makinde transforming the economy, education, and healthcare, and making the state the best place to live in Nigeria based on quality of life, infrastructure, service delivery, and security.
The Commissioner was reacting to a report by the State Performance Index (pSPI), managed by an independent consultancy firm.
He explained that the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with proceeds being invested productively for the benefit of the people.
While the previous administration struggled to reach ₦15 billion annually, the Seyi Makinde-led government increased IGR to ₦65 billion in 2024. By July 2025, collections had already risen to ₦58 billion—just ₦7 billion short of the total generated in the previous year.
“The implication of these figures,” Oyelade said, “is that Oyo State will surpass its own record by the end of this year, with a target close to ₦100 billion, thereby positioning the state as a leading financial hub in the country.”
Economic Growth Without Extra Burden
Unlike many sub-nationals and past administrations in Oyo State, the improvement in IGR has not imposed an additional burden on investors. Instead, the state government has expanded opportunities in agribusiness, infrastructure, and tourism.
This economic expansion, combined with the ripple effect of consistent salary payments, has boosted the state’s finances. Over 130,000 workers currently receive ₦14.5 billion monthly, and in September this figure rose to ₦15.4 billion, underlining the government’s strong commitment to workers’ welfare.
Reviving Healthcare Delivery
Healthcare has also been a major focus of the administration. According to the Commissioner, 264 primary healthcare centres have been upgraded across the state, and more than 3,900 professionals recruited—moves that have significantly strengthened the system and restored public confidence.
Oyelade further recalled that during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office two weeks ago, UNICEF’s Country Representative, Celine Lafocriere, commended Oyo State for having more engagements with UNICEF in the past two years than with any other state in Nigeria.
Education as a Cornerstone of Development
On education, Prince Oyelade revealed that staff strength in primary schools has doubled from 13,730 in 2019 to 26,436 in 2025. Over 10,500 teaching and non-teaching staff have also been employed to improve learning outcomes and youth development.
The Commissioner noted that Governor Makinde’s reforms have led to the construction of 60 model schools, 289 new classroom blocks, and the renovation of 229 others. Importantly, over 60,000 out-of-school children have been reintegrated into classrooms, improving access and equity in education.
Additionally, the government has created four new educational zones complete with administrative structures, while 2,000 teachers have been absorbed into the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) to improve efficiency and strengthen the system.
Building a Model State
Prince Oyelade concluded that Governor Makinde’s reforms across key sectors—finance, education, and healthcare—are transforming Oyo into a model state where economic growth directly benefits residents.
With Oyo State IGR on track to approach ₦100 billion in 2025, the administration is consolidating the state’s reputation as both a financial powerhouse and a centre of improved quality of life.
About The Author
