Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday presented a proposed ₦1.115 trillion budget for the 2027 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, with infrastructure, education and health care among the major priorities.
The proposal, totalling ₦1,115,351,378,359.90 and tagged “Budget of Sustained Progress,” was presented during the Assembly’s plenary in Ibadan.
Makinde described the presentation as his last as governor, saying the document reflected the priorities, concerns and expectations expressed by residents during consultations preceding its preparation.
Giving a breakdown, the governor proposed ₦670.03 billion for capital expenditure, representing 60.07 per cent of the budget, and ₦445.31 billion for recurrent expenditure, representing 39.93 per cent.
The allocation means approximately ₦60 of every ₦100 proposed would go towards capital investment.
Makinde explained that investment in infrastructure must be supported by adequate personnel, equipment and other resources needed to make public facilities functional.
He noted that schools require teachers, while hospitals need health workers, medicines and equipment, stressing that government must provide both physical infrastructure and the services residents depend on.
Under the Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023–2027, infrastructure received the largest sectoral allocation of ₦236.15 billion, representing 21.17 per cent of the proposed budget.
Education was allocated ₦190.53 billion, or 17.08 per cent, while health care received ₦93.01 billion, representing 8.34 per cent.
The governor said infrastructure spending would continue to prioritise roads and facilities that connect communities, encourage production and trade, and improve access to economic opportunities.
He added that protecting existing infrastructure through proper maintenance would remain an important part of the government’s work.
On health care, Makinde said the administration would strengthen the facilities and systems required to provide accessible and dependable services. He added that investments in other sectors would support agricultural production, processing and access to markets.
The governor stressed that achieving the budget’s objectives would require discipline in revenue administration, expenditure management and reporting.
He called for improved compliance with revenue obligations, the closure of leakages and simpler processes through which residents could make payments to the state.
Makinde also said financing decisions must be carefully assessed, with funds spent strictly on the purposes for which they were approved.
Addressing the approaching transition, the governor noted that although the budget covers the entire 2027 fiscal year, his administration would implement only part of it before handing over on May 29, 2027.
He said responsibility for implementing the remainder would rest with the next administration, urging residents to consider continuity and competence when choosing their next leaders.
Makinde asked voters to choose wisely between those he said “don’t have any clue” and those prepared to continue the work already started.
He said his administration had a responsibility to leave clear records, properly documented commitments and strong institutions capable of sustaining public services throughout the transition.
According to him, the change of government should allow residents to continue receiving services and public workers to carry out their duties without disruption.
The governor thanked the Speaker and members of the Assembly for their partnership, saying they had placed the interests of Oyo State above political and party considerations.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Chief Judge of Oyo State, public servants, traditional institutions, development partners, the private sector and residents.
Speaking on his plans after the presidential election, Makinde said he would remain governor until May 29, 2027.
He added that even if he moves to Abuja, he could still undertake interventions in Oyo State between February and May 2027 “that people will never forget.”
Reflecting on his desired legacy, the governor said residents should be able to point to institutions they trust, opportunities they can access and a government responsive to their needs, beyond the physical projects delivered during his tenure.
Makinde urged lawmakers to exercise their constitutional responsibility in scrutinising and approving the proposal with the welfare of residents in mind.
“If you are removing or you are adding, have in mind that destinies of our people are involved,” he said.
