By David Adeoye
Ibadan, Jan. 12, 2026
Gov. Seyi Makinde on Monday swore in Prof. Musibau Babatunde as Secretary to the Oyo State Government, urging officials to avoid internal conflicts.
Speaking at the ceremony in the Executive Chamber, Gov. Makinde said government officials must remain focused on the mandate freely given by the people.
Addressing speculation over Prof. Olanike Adeyemo’s removal, the governor said, “It was a routine decision. She did nothing wrong.”
He described Babatunde, a University of Ibadan economics professor, as a trusted ally who “has been with me for years and understands government operations.
“Babatunde believed in my political vision even before I became governor in 2019.”
The governor urged the new SSG to deploy his experience to ensure smooth administration and “foster unity within the government team.”
Babatunde pledged efficient service delivery through improved coordination of government activities across ministries and agencies.
He assured residents that policies would be implemented more coherently, focusing on “tangible outcomes that positively impact the people of Oyo State.”
At another programme, Gov. Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Oyo state.
He made this known on Monday in Ibadan, during the annual inter-faith service organised by the state government to usher in the new year.
He recalled the Jan. 5 attack by suspected bandits at the Old Oyo National Park in Oloka village, Oriire Local Government Area (LGA), which led to the death of five forest guards.
Makinde urged residents of the affected community as well as the state, not to panic over the incident, adding that his administration will not relent in providing adequate security across the state.
The governor implored the people of Oyo, to remain vigilant and security conscious, even as the year progresses.
He commended the state’s workforce, noting that the success of his administration was made possible by their efforts and support.
He called for more support and cooperation from stakeholders, and also urged workers to maintain high level of productivity and commitment to duty.
In her address, the State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, commended Makinde’s worker-friendly policies, which she said had brought positive results.
Oni tasked workers to remain guided by integrity, accountability, professionalism, and the fear of God in the discharge of their duties.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a highlight of the event was the presentation of a white horse by the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, to the governor, for being a pensioners- friendly governor.
The Executive Secretary of the union, Mr. Olusegun Abatan, presented the horse on behalf of the pensioners to the governor.
