Oyo Becoming One Of Nigeria’s Fastest Growing Economies, Says Makinde

Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that his administration has been working hard to make the state’s economy one of the fastest growing in the country.

The governor maintained that the administration has placed a strong emphasis on infrastructural development, innovations, and investments to build a vibrant economy since its inception in 2019.

He added that the state had also focused on agribusiness to achieve food security and economic stability, noting that the government would not relent in its vision to achieve sustainable development in the state.

Makinde was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal stated this while declaring open the Oyo State International Trade Fair tagged EXPOYO 2025, with the theme: “Achieving Food Security and Economic Stability in Oyo State Through Massive Investments in Agriculture,” held at the EXPOYO Permanent International Trade Fair Complex, Sango, Ibadan.

Makinde said that while the issue of food security was the responsibility of all stakeholders, the government has created an enabling environment for businesses, which is reflected in the ongoing improvements in critical sectors like transportation, energy, agriculture, and technology.

He maintained that massive investment in infrastructure development through interconnecting the zones of the state with good roads, investment in the security of lives and property, and the introduction of policies by the administration to ensure ease of doing business were requirements for achieving food security and economic development.

He said: “It is with great gratitude to the almighty God that I stand before you today to officially declare the 2025 Oyo State International Trade Fair open. This event is a testament to my promise last year that the Trade Fair will be held at least once a year.

“This Trade Fair is an opportunity for us all to showcase our natural endowment and cultural heritage areas and a remarkable platform to foster a business-friendly environment which conforms to economic enhancement.

“The EXPOYO 2025 is designed to serve as a forum for investors and business minds to explore new opportunities and collaborate in advancing trade activities in the State.

The fair’s theme, “Achieving Food Security and Economic Stability in Oyo State through Massive Investment in Agriculture,” encapsulates the present administration’s vision of making Oyo State the fastest-growing economy in Nigeria.

“We intend to boost commerce to create a sustainable ecosystem where businesses (large and small) can thrive, empowering communities and contributing to the state’s economic development and beyond.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Mr Adeniyi Adebisi, said the government is working diligently to create policies, infrastructure and a business climate that will position Oyo State as a destination of choice for investment both home and abroad.

He called on exhibitors, investors, and partners to connect with potential business partners, share ideas, and explore collaborations to promote their products and services to a broader audience.