News
Makinde: Nigerians Hungry and Angry, But Oyo State Pushes Ahead with Airport Upgrade
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has acknowledged the difficult times Nigerians are currently facing, expressing concerns over widespread hunger and frustration.
His remarks came during the groundbreaking event for the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Alakia, Ibadan, as part of efforts to elevate it to international standards.
During his address, Makinde emphasized that his administration is committed to avoiding policies that would worsen the already challenging situation for citizens.
He highlighted his government’s awareness of the economic difficulties and assured that steps are being taken to manage them at the state level.
He pointed out that Oyo State has limited control over national issues but pledged to focus on measures within the state’s capacity to provide relief for the people.
He mentioned a recent decision made at the Executive Council Meeting, acknowledging the tough times ahead.
“Nigerians are hungry and angry,” Makinde said, before voicing hope that the growing discontent would not escalate further.
The governor underscored that while economic challenges persist, his administration remains focused on implementing decisions that will benefit the state in the long run, including plans to expand the economy.
Makinde further addressed concerns about the newly passed Presumptive Tax Bill, which was introduced to generate additional revenue for the state.
He assured the public that, despite the passage of the bill, its implementation would be delayed to avoid adding to the financial burden faced by citizens.
“Yes, I will sign it into law, but we will not enforce it at this time,” he added.
The governor also took the opportunity to thank the committee responsible for the airport upgrade project, acknowledging their efforts over the last six weeks in bringing the plan to fruition.
He recognized that some might question the timing of such an investment, but stressed that the decision was driven by data and strategic planning.
According to Makinde, the airport’s upgrade will transform Oyo State by connecting it to global markets and increasing its attractiveness for investors, particularly in sectors like agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology.
The project, which includes improvements to the runway, airfield lighting, and terminal facilities, is expected to be completed within a year.
Makinde expressed confidence that the upgraded airport would not only enhance the ease of doing business but also position Ibadan as a major regional hub for commerce.
He believes the development will significantly boost the state’s economy by attracting investments and fostering opportunities across various industries.
As part of the ongoing development efforts in the state, Makinde also addressed compensation provided to landowners in Ajia, whose properties were affected by the construction of a new Air Force Base.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring that those affected by state projects are fairly compensated.
The governor concluded by reaffirming his administration’s dedication to initiatives that promote economic growth while taking into account the challenges currently faced by the people of Oyo State.
The Progressive Governors’ Forum has pledged full support to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office. Speaking at the APC National Summit in Abuja, the forum’s chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, urged his fellow governors to take firm control of politics in their states and work to secure victories for the party across all levels.
Uzodimma emphasized that a united and active effort by APC governors will pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also acknowledged the public backing Tinubu has received from APC governors in the North, calling it a strong step toward solidifying the president’s position as the party’s next flag bearer.
According to him, APC governors must promote federal government policies and dominate their political spaces to ensure success in the next general elections. Uzodimma closed his remarks by formally calling on the summit to adopt the position of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in endorsing Tinubu for a second term and committing to deliver that mandate.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again slashed the pump price of petrol across Nigeria, offering some relief to consumers. The new price now falls between N875 and N905 per litre, reflecting a N15 drop. This update was shared on the refinery’s official social media page on Thursday.
According to Dangote, the price cut affects major fuel distributors working with the refinery, including MRS, Ardova, Heyden, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. With this change, Lagos residents will now buy petrol at N875 per litre. Those in the South-South and South-East regions will pay N905, while the South-West sees a new rate of N885.
In the North-West and central parts of the country, it’s N895, and the North-East will also pay N905. Dangote added that their petrol and diesel are not only high-quality but also designed to support engine efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
JAMB has announced that it will release the results of over 379,000 candidates who sat for the rescheduled UTME this Wednesday. The resit, which ran from Friday to Monday, was organized following several reports of technical and human issues during the initial exam. These issues, which were especially noticeable in Lagos and the South-East, affected candidates’ performance and sparked nationwide concern about the exam’s fairness.
JAMB admitted to system failures and took responsibility. Last week, Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, while announcing the makeup exam, emotionally accepted blame and assured affected candidates they would get another chance. Out of the original 1.9 million candidates who sat for the UTME, more than 1.5 million scored below 200 marks, raising eyebrows about the exam’s credibility.
JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, confirmed that the resit results would be made public on Wednesday. He noted that 379,997 candidates were affected—over 200,000 from Lagos and more than 170,000 from the South-East. According to the registrar, the issues were due to sabotage, and affected candidates were notified via text messages starting last Thursday.
So far, of the nearly two million results processed, only 0.24% of candidates scored 320 and above, while just 0.63% scored 300 and above. Around 3.76% scored between 250–299, 17.11% fell within the 200–249 range, and over half—50.29%—scored between 160–199. The rest scored below 160, with a very small number getting less than 100.
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