The governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has been honoured with “Political Personality of the Year 2025” award by The Sun newspapers.
The governor, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Otunba (Dr) Segun Ogunwuyi, received the award on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at The Sun Awards, in Lagos State.
Dr. Ogunwuyi, who spoke with journalists shortly after receiving the award on behalf of Governor Makinde, said that it was in recognition of Makinde’s resolute decision to support strong democratic values in the country and his “conviction to stand firmly for democratic ideals, to govern with courage, and to place people at the very heart of public service.”
He noted that the governor’s journey in leadership has been guided by the belief that democracy must work for the people, and that quality livelihood must be delivered to them.
He explained that on his watch in the last six years and eight months, Oyo State had been on a steady path of reform, stability, and inclusive growth, a development which he noted, had not gone unnoticed by different organisations, including The Sun Newspapers.
“This award speaks not only to quality leadership, but to conviction. The conviction to stand firmly for democratic ideals, to govern with courage, and to place people at the very heart of public service.
“As Governor Makinde often says, governance is not just about roads, bridges, or physical infrastructure; it is about building enduring institutions that promote economic opportunity, guarantee security, and improve the quality of life for present and future generations.
“Under his leadership, Oyo State has continued on a steady path of reform, stability, and inclusive growth. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning respect and commendation from within Nigeria and beyond our borders.
“This award, therefore, serves as both an affirmation and a renewed call to service — an encouragement to continue upholding democratic values, pursuing excellence in governance, empowering our people, and consistently raising the bar for leadership in our nation.
“On behalf of His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, I dedicate this honour to the resilient, supportive, and forward-looking people of Oyo State. They remain the true partners and beneficiaries of this journey, and indeed, the real architects of this success.
“I thank the Board of Editors and management of The Sun Newspapers for this recognition.
“May God bless Oyo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Dr Ogunwuyi stated further.
