Makinde At 58: Debo Akande Celebrates Oyo Governor, Extends Christmas Felicitations To Christians
•By OYENIYI KAZEEM
IBADAN – THE Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande, has congratulated Oyo State Governor , Engineer Seyi Makinde on the occasion of his 58th birthday, describing him as a transformational leader whose administration has redefined governance and economic development in Oyo State.
In a congratulatory message issued on Thursday, Dr. Akande noted that Governor Makinde’s birthday, which coincides with Christmas Day, presents a unique opportunity to reflect on leadership founded on service, sacrifice, and people-centred development.
“Your Excellency, as you mark another year of purposeful living, we celebrate not only your birthday but also your unwavering commitment to the growth and prosperity of Oyo State,” Dr. Akande said.
“Your leadership has created a conducive environment for innovation, investment, and sustainable development, particularly in the agribusiness sector.”
Dr. Akande, who also serves as Executive Adviser to the Governor on International Cooperation and Development, credited Makinde’s administration for repositioning agriculture as a major economic driver through deliberate policies and institutional reforms.
According to him, the governor’s support has enabled OYSADA to attract strategic partnerships, empower smallholder farmers, create jobs for youths, and strengthen rural economies across the state.
He added that initiatives such as the development of agribusiness industrial hubs and improved access to finance and markets have enhanced Oyo State’s competitiveness and reinforced its reputation as an emerging agribusiness destination in Nigeria.
Extending his Christmas greetings, Dr. Akande prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the governor as he leads the state.
“As Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, a symbol of hope, humility, and selfless service we see these same virtues reflected in your style of governance,” he stated.
Dr. Akande also used the occasion to wish residents of Oyo State a peaceful and joyful Christmas celebration, urging them to embrace unity, tolerance, and collective responsibility in the pursuit of sustained development.
“May this festive season renew our faith in shared progress and strengthen our resolve to support policies and programmes that uplift our people,” he said.
Governor Makinde, whose leadership has drawn commendations from within and outside the state, continues to receive goodwill messages from political leaders, traditional institutions, civil servants, and citizens as he marks his 58th birthday amid the Christmas celebrations.