…appoint Dr. Morohunkola Thomas as Agency DG
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has signed into law the bill establishing the Oyo State Mobilization Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED).
This move underscores his administration’s commitment to prioritizing economic development to address the state’s significant challenges.
Governor Makinde also announced the appointment of Dr. Morohunkola Thomas, a former Commissioner for Education and his current Special Adviser on Socio-Economic Development, as the Director General of the new agency during the signing ceremony at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan, on Tuesday,
Makinde emphasized that the establishment of OYMASED aligns with his administration’s vision to be defined not just by infrastructure but by strong institutions.
According to him, “We are here today to sign one of the most important laws that will shape the future of this administration and our dear state.
I want to thank Prof. Jerry Gana, who pioneered the Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery (MAMSER), after which we have modeled OYMASED.”
He extended his gratitude to the Assembly members for their timely passage of the bill and continued collaboration with the administration. “With OYMASED, we have an agency that will simplify our economic policies and educate our people about the law and political processes. This agency will serve as a rallying point for several key MDAs of the government,” he added.
Governor Makinde highlighted the importance of mobilizing the populace to enhance productivity and tackle poverty.
He noted, “There is hunger in the land, which does not reflect where we should be as a nation. We must create a framework to harness our potential through mobilization, sensitization, and advocacy. OYMASED is a key part of this framework.”
He further stressed that continuous education is vital for economic development and building trust among the people. “OYMASED will play a crucial role in the continuous mobilization and sensitization of the various demographics in Oyo State for social, economic, political, and environmental development,” he said.
During the commissioning of the OYMASED office, Governor Makinde reiterated that the state needs strong institutions to thrive.
He said, “This administration will not be defined by road constructions and infrastructure alone, but by the institutions we are putting in place. Nigeria must take a cue from Oyo State in creating strong institutions to address its challenges.”
Makinde praised Dr. Morohunkola Thomas as a valuable asset, stating, “Dr. Thomas was identified as a good man, and I had to request his service for the state.
We will break down barriers to ensure that the best in this state lead us. We are mobilizing all hands and providing the necessary support.”
Former Minister of Information and National Orientation, Professor Jerry Gana, commended Governor Makinde for his efforts in establishing OYMASED.
He said the agency would accelerate development and transformation in the state through the involvement and mobilization of the people.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, also expressed gratitude to the governor for his dedication to the state’s development.
He stated that the bill embodies the collective aspirations to lay a robust framework for community development.
Dr. Morohunkola Thomas, the newly appointed Director General of OYMASED, assured that the agency’s objectives would be achieved, leaving a lasting legacy for future administrations.
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