By Yemi Akinsuyi
The Oyo state government has urged Oke-Ogun residents to come up with relevant submissions into the proposed 2026 budget, just as it reassured them of adequate security.
The Deputy Governor of the State, Barr. Adebayo Lawal made the remarks Tuesday, during the 2026 Stakeholders Consultative meeting held at Saki Township Hall.
Lawal said the exercise will give citizens of the state a voice in the budget preparation while also providing updates on the performance of the 2025 budget.
He reassured residents that previous suggestions had been integrated into earlier budgets.
Barr. Lawal however promised that all projects embarked on, after the 2025 stakeholders consultative meeting will be completed before the expiration of the present administration’s second term.
The Deputy Governor also reassured residents of the Oke-Ogun zone of adequate security to boost economic growth of the region.
He said Oyo state government will leave no stone unturned to strengthen security in the entire linking roads of the zone, entry and exit points, and other strategic locations in the zone.
Lawal said all hands were on deck to fish out any miscreant and use the instrumentality of the law to deal with them.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic planning, Prof. Musibau Babatunde encouraged continued civic cooperation, saying that the budget’s effectiveness relies on citizens fulfilling civic duties, including paying taxes.
He added that the consultative session is part of a larger series across the zones in the state, underscoring the forum as key to shaping the 2026 budget.
“Let me assure you that Governor Seyi Makinde has your interest at heart. What we are doing here is a foundational part of the 2026 budget presentation and it will ensure residents’ needs guide the present government’s planning.”
Various communities, religious bodies, market women, artisans, students’ leaders among others came forward to present their requests.
Present at the programme were top government functionaries, from the region and traditional rulers.
