Nearly a week after the first wide-bodied aircraft landed at the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Alakia, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to attracting more investors to the state. He said the airport upgrade had rewritten its 43-year-old history but noted that his government’s vision extended beyond that milestone, aiming to make the facility welcoming for investors who would want to return after their first visit.
Speaking at the Jagz Hospitality Conference, held to mark the first anniversary of the hotel, Makinde said the government would sustain the business-friendly policies that had attracted investments like The Jagz Hotel and many others, while also working to create more opportunities. He assured that the state would continue to support businesses despite the prevailing economic challenges.
The governor praised the management and workers of The Jagz Hotel for keeping the business strong after one year, attributing its survival to hard work and teamwork. “Since that one year, there has been a lot within the economic environment, and that you are still standing shows that you have together a team. And I can only assure you that as a government, whatever you need from us, please ask, we will oblige,” he said.
Makinde also addressed the issue of import substitution, stressing that the notion that the country’s economic problems would disappear by focusing solely on the local economy was flawed. He emphasized that Oyo State remained open to local and international businesses.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, highlighted that the Makinde administration had expanded the state’s economy through tourism and solid minerals, urging stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sectors to continue supporting the government’s efforts.
