By: ‘Sayo Àlàgbé
In Ogbomoso, where tensions had been simmering over industrial action at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde once again demonstrated why many regard him as a leader with foresight, compassion, and practical governance skills.
On Tuesday, Makinde met with professional bodies at the hospital in a move that quickly calmed nerves and reaffirmed his reputation for being hands-on in resolving crises. Instead of allowing the dispute to drag on, he directly engaged with workers, listening carefully to their grievances. The approach highlighted his belief in inclusive leadership and proactive intervention.
The governor’s readiness to act was evident during the meeting. He announced that a Governing Council for the hospital would be constituted within the week. He also approved a monthly stipend of ₦80,000 for 65 non-staff security personnel, while assuring that they would be integrated into the system as ad-hoc staff. In addition, he increased the hospital’s monthly subvention by ₦35 million, ensuring that management could meet its operational needs more effectively.
These measures, far from being mere stopgap solutions, reflect Makinde’s strategy of strengthening institutions for long-term stability. He also went further to address workers’ welfare, approving ₦219 million to clear accumulated promotion arrears in three tranches. To underscore his government’s commitment, he pledged to settle arrears of the new minimum wage covering January to August 2025 within the same period.
For many observers, the message was clear: workers’ welfare is not negotiable but a responsibility the Makinde administration is determined to uphold.
Beyond resolving the crisis at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Makinde also used his Ogbomoso visit to reassure the community about broader development. During a courtesy call on the Soun of Ogbomoso, he announced that the government would commence reconstruction of several inner roads across the metropolis.
This announcement brought fresh hope to residents who have long grappled with the impact of dilapidated roads on mobility, commerce, and daily life. For the governor, it was a chance to prove that governance must address both immediate welfare issues and long-term infrastructural concerns.
Observers say his leadership style is distinct. He does not simply throw resources at problems; instead, he engages stakeholders, listens, and then acts decisively. His philosophy, they argue, is rooted in balancing welfare with development—an approach that paints a picture of people-centered and future-focused governance.
“Some of these challenges should have been resolved before now, but they were not,” Makinde candidly told stakeholders. “That is why we are here to take another shot at solving them.”
This humility, combined with determination, has continued to endear him to the people of Oyo State.
The governor’s approval of road reconstruction in Ogbomoso covers both Ogbomoso North and Ogbomoso South local governments. The projects, he stressed, would not only ease transportation difficulties but also boost economic activity in the ancient city.
Ogbomoso North Roads Approved for Reconstruction:
1. Ajilete Estate – Industrial Estate South
2. Starlight – Ebenezer – Aaje – Orita Akunko
3. General – Orita Naira – Oja’gbo – Abede Bridge
4. Orita Naira – Isale Ora – Ita Alasa – Molete
5. Orita Aaduin – Ile Ewe
6. Aguodo – Olojo – Sekoni – Osupa Eleko – Bosunla Junction
7. INEC – Hotel Delight – Ile Ewe Junction
8. Areago High School – Water Works – Omoojeun Ikoyi Road
9. Zion Academy – Aaje Ologo – Ladunmu – Sawmill Pakiotan
10. Owode – Idi Oro – Kere – Baya Oje Road
11. Katangwa Hospital – Akowonjo Junction
Ogbomoso South Roads Approved for Reconstruction:
1. Onpetu Palace Road
2. Akande Market – Jalubo Junction
3. California Junction – Express
4. Corpers Lodge – Milky Junction
5. Alade Filling Station – Jango Market
6. Sanuaje Junction – Amuda Farm
7. The Apostolic Church Junction – Ojude Ajawa
8. J.K. Atanda – Soun D.C.
9. Orita Merin – Exchange Junction
10. Naira Motel Street – California Junction
11. Caretaker – Ora Garda
The list reflects areas with some of the most deplorable roads, which have long disrupted mobility and economic activity within Ogbomoso. For traders, students, civil servants, and commuters, their rehabilitation promises smoother movement and renewed commercial vibrancy.
In a demonstration of seriousness and urgency, Governor Makinde did not stop at announcing the projects. He arrived in Ogbomoso with two contractors and directed them to commence work immediately in 4 to 6 weeks.To further reassure the community, he gave a firm order that all projects must be completed in no distant time.
For many residents, this directness was both surprising and refreshing. It sent a strong signal that the governor’s words are backed by action, and that his administration intends to deliver results within a set timeframe.
Makinde’s actions in Ogbomoso capture the essence of his governance philosophy: a balance between welfare and infrastructure. At the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, he showed sensitivity to workers’ needs, offering immediate relief and long-term assurances. In the same breath, his approval of road reconstruction demonstrated commitment to grassroots development and economic renewal.
The combined effect is a narrative of leadership that does not pit welfare against infrastructure but treats them as complementary pillars of sustainable governance.
As tensions at the teaching hospital begin to ease and optimism grows in Ogbomoso, the impact of Makinde’s visit is becoming clearer. His proactive steps have not only resolved an industrial crisis but also launched projects that will transform the physical and economic landscape of the city.
For residents, the developments mean more than government promises—they signal a tangible improvement in daily life. For Oyo State at large, they reinforce the governor’s image as a leader who listens, acts, and delivers.
In Ogbomoso today, one truth stands out: Governor ‘Seyi Makinde is not merely managing the present but laying the foundation for a sustainable future. His touch, proactive and deliberate, continues to steer the ancient city toward harmony, progress, and development.
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