Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has expressed delight with the beneficial effects of his administration’s efforts to support the populace as part of 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 revealed this details 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 also disclosed that the governor has given his approval to acquire fifty more luxury buses to add to the current fleet of fifty-five.
“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 revealed that the Council had approved further talks between the military and the government to take over the Old Oyo National Park in order to curb illegal mining and terrorist operations in the enclave.
