Governor of Oyo State, Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to leveraging tourism as a key driver in the expansion of the state’s economy.
Speaking at the public presentation of “Know Oyo State”, a book authored by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the governor noted that tourism—alongside solid mineral development—has become a critical addition to the administration’s economic growth strategy under Omituntun 2.0.
The event, held at the Emeritus Theophilus Ogunwusi Hall, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, attracted dignitaries from across the state and beyond.
Makinde, who launched ten copies of the book with a donation of N10 million, described the publication as a valuable cultural and historical resource that will promote the state’s heritage and guide tourists seeking to explore Oyo.
“In our first term, we focused on agribusiness and infrastructure as the pillars for growing our economy,” the governor said. “But under Omituntun 2.0, we’ve expanded our scope to include solid minerals, culture, and tourism—areas where Oyo State also holds comparative advantage.”
He praised Prince Oyelade for his consistency and contribution to the state’s development, highlighting his role in both Omituntun 1.0 and 2.0 campaigns and his ongoing service as Commissioner for Information.
“Tourists will not come without knowing something about where they are going. This book, alongside other cultural representations, should be made available at key entry points like the Ladoke Akintola International Airport,” Makinde added.
In his remarks, the author, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the concept of the book was birthed in 2012, driven by a desire to document the rich history, culture, and landmarks that define Oyo State.
Other prominent guests at the event lauded the book as a scholarly and cultural reference point. Former Minister of Education, Prof. Emeritus Tunde Adeniran, and the Chairman of Solutions FM, Prince Adegboyega Taofeek, described the book as an “encyclopedia of Oyo State” and called on citizens to take pride in the state’s heritage.
Also speaking, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, commended the publication as a significant addition to the state’s cultural identity.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; former Military Governor of Old Oyo State, Gen. Oladayo Popoola (rtd); former Deputy Governor and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Amb. Taofeek Arapaja; and Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja, wife of a former governor.
Others included former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Chief Yemi Farounmbi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye; the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi; and the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao.
