Productivity, skill acquisition, entrepreneurship critical to economic prosperity – Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that intensive production, skill acquisition, knowledge-based initiatives and development of entrepreneurs are the key drivers of economic prosperity.

Governor Makinde stated this at the weekend during the one year remembrance held in honour of the late Chairman of Zard Group of Companies, Raymond Zard, at his Iyaganku residence in Ibadan.

Governor Makinde eulogised the renowned industrialist and philanthropist, noting that the late Babalaje of Ibadanland contributed immensely to the economic development of Oyo State, especially Ibadanland, during his lifetime.

He added that the Oyo State Government had consistently enjoyed a fruitful business relationship with Zard Holdings, especially in the area of road infrastructure development.

He said: “I couldn’t have missed this opportunity to come and say one or two things about Baba and share my personal lessons from interacting with him.

“I have been hearing about Chief Raymond Zard for quite a while but I did not have the opportunity to meet him until I became the governor, and it was a chance meeting. My childhood friend, Demola Ajibike, got in touch with me after I became governor and said he wanted to dedicate a hall building in honour of Baba. I said, well, I would come there. At least, it would be an opportunity for me to meet this great man that I had been hearing about.

“I met him on the road here, full of energy. Before that meeting, I was in Akure as the Governor-elect. I was coming back to Ibadan and the portion of the road between Akure and Ilesha stood out. I remembered when that road was constructed during President Goodluck Jonathan’s time.

“So, I started asking questions. Who constructed this road? And some people said it was KOPEK. I said where is KOPEK? They said the construction company is based in Ibadan. And, then they linked the company to Baba. So, I was eager to meet with him and ask him. Since that day, there have been no regrets that I met him.

“We cannot talk about infrastructural development in Oyo State without mentioning KOPEK. They have bent backwards, accommodated us and they have been very professional.

“I have about maybe two or three lessons, which I learned from my interaction with Baba. You know, I listen to our people when they say Nigeria has natural resources, so we don’t have any business with poverty. But natural resources alone can never take anyone anywhere.

“Papa also taught us that one should always forget the circumstances of one’s birth. It doesn’t matter where and how you were born. Dominate your environment, wherever you find yourself. Do what is right for the people, by the people. So, I would tell the family to please keep the flag flying, keep walking in the path that Papa has laid for us.

“On behalf of the Government and the People of Oyo State, I want to say may Papa’s soul continue to rest in perfect peace.”