The Oyo State Government has defended its proposed N63.4 billion expenditure on the comprehensive renovation of the over 70-year-old Government House. The state’s Information and Orientation Commissioner, Dotun Oyelade, clarified that the project goes beyond mere renovation, encompassing a significant overhaul and reconstruction of the aging structures. He emphasized that this undertaking is just one component of the administration’s over 200 ongoing projects, which include infrastructural developments like the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, the 110KM Circular Road, LAUTECH’s Iseyin campus, and the Fashola Agro-industrial hub, strategically distributed across the state’s seven zones.
Oyelade underscored the government’s prudent financial management, highlighting a remarkable 300% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), rising from N1.5 billion to N7.8 billion by May 2025. He stressed the administration’s commitment to its workforce, citing the annual expenditure of over N174 billion on salaries and wages, amounting to a monthly outlay of N14.5 billion for what he described as Nigeria’s largest state workforce. Further demonstrating their dedication to employee welfare, Oyelade pointed to the employment of over 27,000 workers, a substantial N13 billion investment in gratuities and pensions, subsidized transportation for over 42,000 commuters, and the promotion of 45 permanent secretaries.
The scope of the Government House reconstruction encompasses 21 structures, including a complete rebuild of the dilapidated presidential lodge and banquet hall, scheduled for completion in time for the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations next February. The Governor and Deputy Governor’s residences will undergo extensive overhauls, encompassing structural, architectural, mechanical, and electrical upgrades. The project also addresses the living quarters for various staff members residing within the Government House complex, along with renovations to the mosque, church, external botanical garden, road network, landscaping, fencing, and furniture.
A significant addition to the revamped Government House will be a helipad, facilitating seamless transportation for VIP visitors, including the presidency, fellow governors, dignitaries, and the governor himself. This feature aims to enhance logistical efficiency and security for high-profile guests. Oyelade emphasized that Governor Makinde’s decision to undertake this project considered the state’s image, the need for a fitting residence for its top officials, and the desire to create a legacy of a beautiful environment, building on the historical significance of the Government House, which has housed notable figures like Sir John Rankin and Sir Adesoji Aderemi.
The Commissioner dismissed a suggestion by a potential 2027 gubernatorial candidate that the N63.4 billion would be better utilized by distributing N3 million to 20,000 citizens. He characterized this proposal as naive and simplistic, arguing that the long-term benefits of a modernized and functional Government House far outweigh the short-term impact of such a distribution. The government’s position is that the investment in the Government House will contribute to the state’s overall development and prestige, attracting investment and creating a more conducive environment for governance.
In concluding, the Oyo State Government emphasizes the project’s importance as part of a broader development strategy, aligning with its commitment to infrastructure improvement and efficient public service. They argue that the modernization of the Government House is a necessary investment that will benefit the state for years to come, reflecting both its historical significance and its future aspirations. The government maintains that the substantial investment in the Government House renovation is justified, considering its long-term benefits to the state’s image, functionality, and overall development agenda. They believe the improved facilities will project a positive image of the state, attract investment, and contribute to a more efficient and effective government operation.
