The Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, announced the support of N10 million for the printing of a book: “Know Oyo State”, authored by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, for distribution across secondary schools in the state.
Makinde made the announcement at the unveiling of the book where he said the support was to aid the printing and distribution of the book across all secondary schools in the 33 local government areas, coordinated through the council chairmen.
Speaking at the event held at the Emeritus Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, Ibadan, Governor Makinde praised Oyelade for his unwavering dedication to the administration, stating, “You’ve never disappointed us.”
He described the book as a strategic tool for preserving and promoting the state’s cultural identity, aligning with the goals of the Omituntun 2.0 agenda.
The governor noted, that while the book primarily targets students, it also serves as a valuable resource for the general public, both within and outside Oyo State.
In his remarks, the author, Oyelade described the book as a comprehensive reference material that documents Oyo State’s history, culture, geography, institutions, and people.
He emphasised that the book intended to enrich the knowledge of students and foster a deeper appreciation for the state’s heritage and developmental progress.
Also speaking at the event, General Manager of Safar Books, Comrade Odetola Olalekan, commended the governor and dignitaries for their support, assuring that the book would be made available in libraries across secondary schools in all local government areas of the state.
Reviewing the book, Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT),Oyo State, Comrade Kayode Salami, highlighted the importance of involving teachers in the authorship and documentation process.
He noted that this initiative had strengthened the education sector’s trust in the current administration, enhanced collaboration between the government and educators, and inspired pride among students.
Oyelade, a veteran journalist and public affairs analyst, has authored several notable works over the past three decades.
