* Governor Seyi Makinde (right)
The Pathfinder
Thursday July 3, 2025
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The President of the Hoteliers Association of Oyo State, Mr. Ayodele Ogundele, has praised Governor ‘Seyi Makinde @seyiamakinde for his transformative policies that are positioning Oyo State as a 24-hour economy.
In an interview with The People’s Verdict, Ogundele, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Davies Hotel, Ibadan, highlighted the significant strides made under Makinde’s administration to foster economic growth and enhance the state’s business environment.
Ogundele commended the governor’s initiatives, particularly the Light Up Oyo Project, which has illuminated streets across the state, enabling businesses such as hotels and retail stores to operate round-the-clock in Ibadan and other areas.
“Governor Makinde’s policies have been extremely beneficial. The electrification and street lighting initiatives have created a thriving economy, allowing businesses to operate 24 hours and attracting investment to new areas,” he stated.
The Hoteliers Association President noted that infrastructure improvements, including well-constructed roads with proper drainage, have boosted economic activity and encouraged the development of new hotels across Oyo State.
“The new roads being laid are a massive blessing. They are done with perfect drainage and without much fanfare, which is unprecedented for a second-term governor,” Ogundele remarked, emphasizing the administration’s efficiency and commitment to sustainable development.
Ogundele also addressed the resolution of longstanding issues faced by hoteliers, such as multiple taxation.
He highlighted that the Makinde administration introduced a harmonized tax system, providing clarity on tax obligations and encouraging compliance.
“Before Governor Makinde, hoteliers faced challenges with various agencies imposing different taxes. Now, the harmonized tax system has made it easier for businesses to meet their responsibilities while seeing tangible benefits like improved roads and security,” he added.
The enhanced security architecture under Makinde’s leadership was also lauded, with Ogundele noting that Ibadan has experienced no major security incidents in the past four to five years.
This stability, coupled with infrastructure development, has made Oyo State a conducive environment for businesses and tourism, further solidifying its path toward a 24-hour economy.
Ogundele’s remarks align with Governor Makinde’s broader vision of expanding Oyo State’s economy through tourism, agribusiness, and infrastructure.
Recent initiatives, such as the commissioning of the Kunle Afolayan Productions’ Film Village and Resort and the promotion of festivals like the World Twins Festival at Igbo-Ora, underscore the administration’s commitment to economic diversification.
The Oyo State Government continues to collaborate with stakeholders, including the Hoteliers Association, to regulate and enhance the hospitality sector, ensuring it contributes to the state’s internally generated revenue and economic growth.
The Hoteliers Association of Oyo State represents hotel owners and operators across the state, advocating for policies that promote growth, professionalism, and sustainability in the hospitality industry.
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