"A proven leader with a vision for a prosperous, secure, and united Nigeria."
Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde is a renowned leader known for his unwavering commitment to public service, integrity, and results-driven governance. With over 25 years of experience spanning engineering, business leadership, and political governance, he has consistently demonstrated the capacity to transform challenges into opportunities. As the Governor of Oyo State, he has set a new standard for competent leadership, delivering measurable progress across infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development. Now, he is ready to lead Nigeria forward with the same vision, competence, and dedication to the people.
The foundation of a leader shaped by values, discipline, and excellence
Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde was born on 25th December 1967 to the family of Pa Olatubosun Makinde and Abigail Makinde in Aigbofa Compound, Oja'ba, Ibadan, Oyo State. He grew up in a middle-class Christian family where his father's career as a teacher-turned-accountant instilled in him the values of discipline, hard work, and service. As the third child in the family, he learned early the importance of responsibility and community.
His educational journey began at St. Paul Primary School and later continued at St Michael Primary School, Yemetu, Ibadan, where he completed his primary education. For his secondary education, he attended Bishop Phillips Academy, Monatan, Ibadan, and also Bishop Phillips Academy, Iwo Road, Ibadan. Even at a young age, he demonstrated a passion for learning and was selected to participate in numerous external academic events, which ignited his desire to serve his community.
In 1985, he gained admission into the prestigious University of Lagos (Unilag), where he pursued a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. He graduated with honours in 1990, laying a solid foundation for a distinguished career. During his undergraduate years, he made several remarkable innovations, including the conversion of gas measurement devices to meet API 14.3 standards in Nigeria, the design and construction of a portable DC to AC converter, and the design of a microprocessor-based DC motor controller for his final year project.
Makinde's thirst for knowledge took him beyond Nigeria. He trained at Industrial Control Services in Houston, Texas on Safety Shutdown Systems. He also attended the Lagos Business School (now Pan-Atlantic University) where he developed analytical competence for managing operations between 1998 and 1999. In 2000, he trained in automation, and in 2002, he studied Fundamentals of Crude Sampling at Jiskoot Auto Control Training Centre in Kent, England. Most notably, in 2005, he studied Understanding and Solving Complex Business Problems at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, equipping him with world-class problem-solving skills.
Building a legacy of excellence in engineering and enterprise
Served as a pupil engineer and later as an engineer, handling key projects and gaining invaluable experience in the oil and gas industry. He completed his mandatory NYSC with the company and was retained due to his exceptional performance.
Worked as a Field Engineer in Eket operations, where he designed, installed, supervised, and commissioned numerous instrumentation projects. His diligence and expertise led to his promotion to Field Manager in 1995.
Founded Makon Engineering and Technical Services Limited (METS) in 1997, growing it from a startup into a multi-million dollar conglomerate with subsidiaries across Africa (Nigeria, South Africa) and the United States. As Group Managing Director, he spearheaded international expansion, corporate governance, and strategic growth.
From humble beginnings to the highest office in Oyo State
Contested for the Oyo South Senatorial seat under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). Though he lost to the PDP candidate, Sen. Kamoru Adedibu, this marked his entry into politics and his determination to serve.
Aspired for the Oyo South 2011 Senatorial seat under the People's Democratic Party (PDP) but lost in the primaries to the incumbent Senator. Undeterred, he remained committed to his vision.
Offered himself for the Oyo State gubernatorial ticket under PDP but was denied the nomination. He defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and contested, coming third with over 50,000 votes.
After extensive consultations, Makinde returned to PDP and emerged as the gubernatorial candidate for the 2019 general elections, polling 2,772 votes at the primary election.
Won the 2019 gubernatorial election with 515,621 votes, defeating his closest rival. He was sworn in on 29 May 2019 as the 28th Executive Governor of Oyo State.
Despite persuasion to run again, he yielded to the people's demand and contested for reelection. He won decisively, having polled the highest votes to defeat his rivals. He was declared winner on March 19, 2023.
Transforming Oyo State through competent leadership
A commitment to uplifting the vulnerable and transforming communities
To build a prosperous, secure, and united Nigeria where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and lives with dignity and hope.
A Nigeria that takes its rightful place as the giant of Africaβan economic powerhouse, a beacon of democracy, and a nation where talent and hard work are rewarded.
Makinde's uncommon thirst for service has endeared him to all and sundry across Nigeria.
Now, he is ready to lead Nigeria forward with the same competence, integrity, and results-driven leadership.