The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem ‘Bayo Lawal, has stated that Egbeda Local Government Area is now strategically positioned for accelerated development, given the array of major projects currently underway across the council.
Barr. Lawal made the remark on Friday while commissioning the newly constructed office complex for the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Local Government and presenting awards to past chairmen of the council. The event was held at the Council Secretariat in Egbeda, Ibadan.
The Deputy Governor noted that ongoing projects such as the Ibadan Circular Road, the Air Force Base in Ajia, and the Ajoda Housing Estate, among others, will significantly transform the fortunes of Egbeda, placing the council at the centre of emerging development corridors.
He appealed to residents and property owners affected by the Ibadan Circular Road project to view the development as a long‑term investment in Oyo State’s future. He assured that all affected persons will be compensated in line with overriding public interest.
Barr. Lawal stressed that, unlike the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which became surrounded by unplanned settlements after its construction in 1977, the Circular Road corridor will benefit from proper planning to ensure sustainable development over the next 20 to 30 years. He added that Egbeda will be one of the biggest beneficiaries of this foresight.
“To the glory of God Almighty, I am here today to commission the Chairman’s Quarters of Egbeda Local Government, constructed by Hon. Sikiru Sanda. This edifice was funded through the council’s IGR, and I have inspected it myself.
“Egbeda Local Government is now a nodal point within Ibadan—encircled by projects designed to drive development. From the Circular Road to the Air Force Base and the Egbe‑Ona Ara Development Corridor, this local government holds immense prospects for Oyo State.
“People have been agitating over the Circular Road corridor, but if we want development, certain things must give way for overriding public interest. The benefits may not be immediately visible, but we are planning 10 to 20 years ahead.
“Those whose houses were demolished will be compensated. They should not agitate. They must understand what the Oyo State Government is trying to achieve.
“I witnessed the construction of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in 1977. The left side of the road toward Lagos was virgin land, but because it was not planned, it became a slum. We must not repeat that mistake.
“The Circular Road we are building will come with adequate planning, so that future generations will know that we had a clear vision for Oyo State.”
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, described the newly commissioned office complex as a lasting legacy of his administration. He noted that the project was executed entirely through the council’s internally generated revenue.
Hon. Sanda expressed profound gratitude to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde for providing the platform and autonomy that enable local governments to translate their development visions into reality. He described the governor as a transformational leader and assured residents that more projects are underway. He pledged to continue serving the people of Egbeda and Oyo State until the last day of his tenure.
In their goodwill messages, Chairman of the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Akintunde; former council chairman and former TESCOM Chairman, Chief Akin Alamu; and Co‑Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council and former Egbeda LG Chairman, Elder Wole Oyelese, all commended Hon. Sanda for demonstrating good governance through impactful projects.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Head of Administration, Egbeda Local Government, Dr. (Mrs.) Monsurat Ayo‑Alaga, stated that the new office building reflects the council’s commitment to prudent financial management, accountability, and the judicious use of public resources. She added that honouring past chairmen provides an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to the growth and development of the council.
She also appreciated Governor Makinde’s administration for its continued commitment to grassroots development through interventions in education, health, water, infrastructure, and security.
The event was attended by the Member representing Egbeda State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Olasunkanmi Babalola; Oyo South APM senatorial candidate, Hon. Oguntoyinbo Ajadi; Chairman, Oyo State Local Government Pension Board, Hon. Ademola Ige; traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.
