Seyi Makinde

**Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde** (born December 25, 1967) is a Nigerian engineer, businessman, philanthropist, and politician who currently serves as the Governor of Oyo State, Nigeria. He is a prominent figure in the Nigerian political and business landscapes, known for his work in the oil and gas sector before entering public service.Early Life and Education Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, at the Catholic Hospital, Oluyoro. He hails from a middle-class family, born to the late Pa Olatubosun Makinde and Madam Abigail Makinde of Aigbofa Compound, Oja’ba Ibadan. Makinde began his formal education at St. Michael's Primary School, Yemetu, Ibadan. He later attended Bishop Phillips Academy, Monatan, Ibadan. He proceeded to the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering in 1990. Makinde furthered his professional development by undergoing specialized training in safety and well-completion projects across various international institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States and the Lagos Business School (LBS).Career Progression and Business Ventures Makinde’s career began in the oil and gas industry. In 1990, he completed his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC). Following his service, he worked as a Field Engineer for Rebold International Limited. In 1997, at the age of 29, Makinde founded **Makon Group**, a diversified conglomerate providing engineering, procurement, construction, and maintenance services to the Nigerian oil and gas sector. He serves as the Group Managing Director. Makon Group quickly grew to become a significant player in the energy industry, establishing his reputation as a successful entrepreneur.Political Career and Major Achievements Makinde’s political ambition began with his intent to contest for the Oyo South Senatorial seat in 2007 under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). Though unsuccessful, his political career gained momentum when he contested for the governorship of Oyo State in 2015 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). In 2019, Makinde successfully ran for the Governorship of Oyo State under the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and was sworn in on May 29, 2019. His administration, which branded itself as the "Oyo State Roadmap for Accelerated Development (RAMP)," focused primarily on education, healthcare, security, and economic expansion through agriculture and infrastructure. Key policies and achievements during his tenure include the scrapping of school fees in public secondary schools, a significant increase in the education budget, and investments in infrastructure development.Current Status Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde was re-elected for a second term as Governor of Oyo State in the 2023 general election, a testament to his popularity and the reception of his policies in the state. He continues to serve as the Executive Governor of Oyo State, living in Ibadan. He is married with three children. Makinde is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts aimed at bridging socioeconomic gaps.