Seyi Makinde Justifies ₦63 Billion Approved Budget for Government House Renovation

Governor Seyi Makinde has defended the ₦63 billion budget for renovating the Oyo State Government House in Agodi. He said the high cost is mainly due to the rising prices of imported materials and the impact of the exchange rate, which the state government cannot control.

He clarified that the ₦63 billion isn't in foreign currency but in naira, and many of the materials needed—like asphalt for road construction—are still imported, which makes them more expensive.

Governor Makinde also shared how the unstable exchange rate has affected other state projects. A loan taken by the previous administration, which required ₦700 million in monthly repayments, now costs ₦3 billion monthly due to the weakening of the naira.

Despite criticism from the opposition, the governor said the renovation is part of a larger plan to improve key areas such as security, health, agriculture, and infrastructure in the state. He also revealed plans to buy two surveillance aircraft to help monitor and fight crime across Oyo State.

Opposition leaders, especially from the APC, have criticized the project as wasteful and poorly timed given the tough economy. They believe the money could be better used to meet urgent needs of the people.

In response, Governor Makinde said the state is making long-term investments to create a safer and more functional environment for everyone. According to him, the high cost is a result of unavoidable economic realities and not careless spending.