Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has carried out a minor cabinet reshuffle with the swearing-in of Dr Taiwo Ladipo as a commissioner, while urging political appointees and public servants to intensify efforts in the remaining months of his administration’s second term.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony held on Monday at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde said his administration must end its tenure on a strong note by delivering projects and policies that would leave a lasting legacy.
The governor charged the newly appointed commissioner to see his appointment as another opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Ladipo, who previously served as Commissioner for Health and later as Permanent Secretary in charge of General Administration, has been assigned to the Ministry of Establishments and Training.
As part of the reshuffle, Prof. Solihu Adelabu was redeployed to the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry.
Makinde explained that appointments into his administration would continue to be based on competence and alignment with the government’s vision for Oyo State.
“My government will continue to make use of individuals who fit into its vision for the state. Let me use this opportunity to clear the air on the development that created the vacancy that Ladipo filled as commissioner,” he said.
The governor added that changes in appointments should not be viewed negatively.
“Relieving an appointee of his or her appointment should be seen as restructuring for better results,” he stated.
Congratulating Ladipo on his appointment, Makinde urged all political office holders and senior government officials to remain focused on delivering quality service before the expiration of the administration.
“I want to also urge political appointees and government officials in this administration to remain loyal to the government, discharge your duties effectively and put in your best for the continuous growth and development of the state.
“It is imperative for the administration to finish strong and leave a lasting impact,” the governor said.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Adebo Ogundoyin, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Chief of Staff Segun Ogunwuyi, Head of Service Mrs Olubunmi Oni, Deputy Chief of Staff Kazim Adeniyi, commissioners, permanent secretaries and other senior government officials.
