OYO STATE INCREASES 2025 BUDGET FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILTY BY OVER 70%

 

Oyo Deputy governor flanked by Barr. Adekanmbi and others.

The Oyo State Government has announced a significant increase of over 70% in its 2025 capital budget allocation for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) compared to the previous year. This was revealed during the 2024 Stakeholders Summit and International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration in Ibadan.

Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal, highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of PWDs throughout his administration. The governor stated that the budget allocation for PWDs has been increased from ₦492 million in 2024 to ₦877.5 million in 2025, based on inputs from PWD representatives during the recent Budget Town Hall meetings. Additionally, the overhead cost for the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities has risen from ₦315 million to ₦345 million.

According to Governor Makinde, the increased budget will cover several key areas, including transportation empowerment, training of relevant and enforcement agencies, and the purchase of assistive and mobility devices.

Makinde further noted the recruitment of 510 PWDs into the Oyo State Civil Service and emphasized a policy directive to protect PWD quotas in all state ministries.

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Reflecting on his administration’s efforts, Makinde recalled appointing Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi as the first Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities upon assuming office in 2023. He also appointed Mr. Timothy Olufemi as the Executive Assistant on Disability Matters to ensure PWDs are fully included in governance.

"During my second term, I reappointed Barrister Adekanmbi and mandated him to secure a budget line, establish a conducive office, and redeploy staff to kick-start the agency. I am pleased to report that these have been accomplished within 18 months of Omituntun 2.0,” Makinde said. He also announced that disability cluster group grants and operational vehicles for the agency have been approved.

Makinde emphasized his administration’s unique stance on inclusivity by appointing PWDs as Supervisory Councilors and Special Assistants across all local governments, making Oyo State a leader in inclusive governance.

In his remarks, Barrister Adekanmbi praised the administration's commitment to PWDs. “The agency has received full support from the government, ensuring that PWDs have access to governance and quality services,” he said.

This substantial budget increase reflects Oyo State’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society where PWDs are empowered and actively involved in governance.