It is no longer news that Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has set an exceptional standard in governance. His visionary leadership has redefined development in Oyo State, setting a benchmark many strive to emulate. But beyond his well-documented achievements, a new set of leaders are rising at the grassroots — local government chairmen whose performances are turning heads and reshaping narratives.
In line with the constitutional mandate of local government administration, these chairmen have embraced their responsibilities with determination and innovation. Their leadership has brought tangible progress to their communities, proving that local governance, when done right, can drive transformative change.
Below are five chairmen currently stealing the spotlight in Oyo State.
Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele – Egbeda Local Government
A seasoned politician with legislative and executive experience, Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele has turned Egbeda into a blueprint for grassroots development. By leveraging internally generated revenue (IGR), his administration has executed several impactful projects:
Education: Construction of new primary schools and renovation of existing ones across all wards.
Infrastructure: Provision of both solar-powered and generator-powered boreholes to underserved communities.
Roads: Rehabilitation and construction of multiple kilometers of roads to boost transportation and commerce.
Healthcare: Renovation and commissioning of a once-abandoned health center in kute, Ward 5.
Security: Installation of solar-powered streetlights and construction of a new police station to enhance safety.
Egbeda, under Sanda’s stewardship, stands as a model of how effective local governance can work hand-in-hand with state-level vision.
Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo – Ibadan North East Local Government
Quiet in demeanor but bold in delivery, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo continues to steer Ibadan North East on a steady path of progress.
Agriculture: Introduction of the OMU Yes Food Production scheme, providing food at subsidized rates to residents.
Roads: Rehabilitation of key roads within the LGA.
Education: Distribution of educational materials to several primary schools.
Security: Ongoing implementation of community-based security strategies.
His administration may not be loud, but its results speak volumes.
Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade – Ibadan North Local Government
A product of Governor Makinde’s youth inclusiveness policy, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade exemplifies the promise of youthful leadership.
Youth Empowerment: Launch of skill acquisition programs and scholarships for indigent students.
Infrastructure: Installation of solar-powered streetlights across all 12 wards.
Security: Regular collaborations with security agencies to ensure safety.
Olufade’s inclusive leadership style ensures every voice is heard, every resident represented, and every ward developed.
Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen (Senator) – Lagelu Local Government
Bold, visionary, and development-focused, Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen — popularly known as “Senator” — is fast making Lagelu a beacon of grassroots progress.
Economic Innovation: Launch of Lagelu Paints, a local initiative designed to create jobs and generate revenue.
Community Engagement: Unification of religious leaders for enhanced communal harmony.
Youth Development: Multiple vocational and skills training programs.
Infrastructure: Development projects rolled out to even the remotest parts of Lagelu.
From road projects reaching even the remotest parts of Lagelu to economic ventures and social harmony efforts, Senator’s leadership is laying a strong foundation for sustainable local development.
Though newly elected, his achievements rival those of veteran council bosses.
Engr. Akeem Olatunji – Oluyole Local Government
Former Publicity Secretary of the PDP in Oyo State, Engr. Akeem Olatunji came into office with a cloud of skepticism around him. Today, he has silenced critics and astonished admirers.
Developmental Momentum: Olatunji has rapidly transformed Oluyole into a developmental hub, with visible projects cutting across infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment.
Leadership Impact: His strategic planning and people-centered approach have brought dignity back to governance in Oluyole.
A Promising Future: If his first few months are anything to go by, Oluyole’s future under Olatunji is bursting with potential.
Those who doubted his leadership now nod in respect — and the results are only just beginning.
Conclusion
While political preferences may differ, the impact of these five grassroots leaders cannot be ignored. Their dedication to infrastructural development, education, economic empowerment, and security has raised the bar for local governance in Oyo State.
With Governor Makinde providing statewide direction, these council chairmen have proven that when local and state governments work in synergy, progress is not just possible — it’s inevitable.
