By Adeola Badru

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has emphasised that his legacy should be defined by the institutions established during his administration rather than infrastructural projects.

Speaking on Monday at a two-day mid-term leadership retreat held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the governor reflected on his Omituntun 2.0 agenda and its vision for sustainable governance in the state.

The retreat, themed: “Reflecting on Progress, Refining Priorities and Refining for Maximum Impact and Legacy,” focused on developing a strategic roadmap for Oyo State from 2023 to 2027.

The gathering brought together key stakeholders, including government officials and development partners, to discuss the progress and challenges ahead.

Governor Makinde articulated his desire to be remembered for creating frameworks that enhanced good governance, noting that his administration’s achievements should go beyond physical infrastructure.

“I want to be remembered for the institutions that will endure beyond my tenure, ensuring that governance continues to serve the people effectively.”

The governor highlighted several initiatives of his administration to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.

He noted that while infrastructure projects such as roads and schools are vital, the real measure of success lies in the systems that ensure effective governance and empower citizens.

“It’s not the bricks and mortar that define my administration, but the systems we put in place that will empower future leaders and citizens alike.”

The governor also pointed out that the development of institutions is crucial for fostering a culture of good governance that can adapt to future challenges, stressing the importance of building a robust framework that supports continuous improvement and inclusivity in governance.

“Our focus should be on building a robust framework that supports continuous improvement and inclusivity in our governance approach.”

Governor Makinde called for collaboration among stakeholders to improve the quality of governance in Oyo State while urging participants to work together to refine strategies that can lead to maximum impact and sustainable development.

He called for a commitment from all stakeholders to prioritize establishing institutions that will ensure the longevity of good governance practices in the state.

“Together, we can create a legacy of good governance that stands the test of time, benefiting generations to come,” Makinde said.

Vanguard News