The administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has made significant progress in revitalizing Oyo State’s education sector. Recognizing the dire state of infrastructure before his tenure, the governor prioritized education as a cornerstone of his sustainable development roadmap.
In 2019, Oyo State faced an educational infrastructure deficit of ₦60 billion. Since taking office, Makinde has allocated approximately ₦3 billion annually through state and UBEC counterpart funding. By 2024, education received the highest budgetary allocation, with a similarly robust allocation planned for 2025. Despite these efforts, Makinde acknowledged that bridging the infrastructure gap at the current pace would take two decades. To accelerate progress, the state has committed to spending ₦10 billion to ₦15 billion yearly, aiming to close the gap within four years.
One of the administration’s key achievements is the renovation of 105 primary schools across the state’s three senatorial districts in partnership with the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) program and the World Bank’s Global Partnership for Education (GPE). These efforts are part of the BESDA AF-TESS initiative, which targets the improvement of basic education in rural areas.
Transforming Rural Education
The renovated schools, many of which were previously in deplorable conditions, now feature modern classrooms, ramps for physically challenged pupils, new furniture, solar-powered boreholes, and gender-segregated toilets. These upgrades aim to create a conducive learning environment and address the disparities between urban and rural schools.
Governor Makinde’s Special Adviser on Education Intervention, Hon. Suraj Tiamiyu, emphasized the collaboration with School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) to ensure project quality. According to him, the revamped facilities will significantly improve access to education, reduce the number of out-of-school children, and foster inclusive learning.
The BESDA AF-TESS program targets the renovation of 190 rural schools in Oyo, Adamawa, and Katsina states. With 105 schools already completed, the program is set to conclude in October 2025.
Community Reactions
The impact of these renovations has been widely praised by beneficiaries. Baba Adeoti Fabiyi of Idi-Oro, Kajola Local Government Area, commended the government for rebuilding Community Basic School, Idi-Oro/Asaka, saying the improvements will enhance learning and teaching. Similarly, Mrs. Felicia Bamgbopa, a grandparent at Suladi Nomadic Primary School, expressed relief that the new facilities have created a conducive learning environment.
Teachers have also lauded the project. A teacher from Oluyole Government Council Primary School noted that the upgraded facilities have reignited enthusiasm among staff and students.
A Commitment to Sustainable Development
Governor Makinde’s administration has completed over 400 education-related projects, including model schools, classrooms with toilets, boreholes, and perimeter fences. The recruitment of over 15,000 teachers and ongoing training initiatives have further strengthened the sector.
Makinde views education as a critical tool for reducing poverty and inequality while driving sustainable economic growth. His administration’s commitment aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to achieve 100% literacy and universal access to quality education by 2030.
Oyo State’s education reforms under Governor Makinde exemplify the transformative power of strategic investment and community collaboration in creating a brighter future for all.
