Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has finally approved a massive N63.4 billion for the renovation and upgrade of the Government House in Ibadan, after years of residing in his private residence due to the deplorable state of the official quarters.
The approval was granted during the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, with the announcement made by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Wednesday.
According to Oyelade, the decision came after an assessment that described the Government House’s condition as “embarrassing and unbefitting” for the state’s seat of power. For six years, both Governor Makinde and his deputy, Bayo Lawal, have shunned the official quarters due to their deteriorated condition.
The commissioner further revealed that the renovation would also include the completion of a state banquet hall expected to be ready before Oyo’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2026.
In a related development, the government also approved N14.2 billion for the installation of a new Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the Ladoke Akintola Airport in Alakia, Ibadan. The move is part of a broader plan to transform the airport into a fully functional international aviation hub.
The new ILS, which ensures aircraft safety in poor weather, replaces a damaged system previously installed by the Federal Government. The project is expected to be completed within six months, with flight operations currently suspended to fast-track construction work.
