Oyo at 50: I benefited from Bola Ige’s free education programme in 1976 – Gov Makinde
News Oyo at 50: I benefited from Bola Ige’s free education programme in 1976 – Gov Makinde Published on January 26, 2026 By Musliudeen Adebayo googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1500386953281-8'); }); Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has said he is one of the beneficiaries of the free education programme introduced during the tenure of late Chief Bola Ige. Makinde revealed this, Monday while speaking at the opening ceremony of Oyo State at 50. Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976 during the military regime of the late Murtala Muhammad. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1524595905268-5'); }); Bola Ige was the first executive governor of the old Oyo State. He governed the state between 1 October 1979 and 1 October 1983. Makinde, at the event, said he did not pay any school fees during his secondary school years because of Ige’s free education programme. He noted that he canceled payment of tuition in both primary and secondary schools in the state to give back to society. Makinde said, “You know that Uncle Bola Ige introduced free education programme in Oyo State. I started my secondary education during Bola Ige’s free education programme. “I went to Bishop Philips Academy. They gave me everything I wanted. They gave us books, chairs, tables and everything we want. “I did not pay school fees. When I cancelled the school fees, it is a way to give back. “I want to tell you that the full strength of Oyo State lies in its people. Oyo State has moved from promises to performances.” Don't Miss Sheikh Gummi was a teacher, reformer’ – Tinubu harps on religious tolerance You may like Makinde now emergency opposition mouthpiece after snub by Tinubu – Fayose You can’t speak truth to power under Tinubu govt – Makinde PDP is well, alive – Makinde declares Oyo recorded 246 fire incidents in 2025 – Makinde’s aide, Akinwande Makinde lacked courage to face Tinubu alone – Fayose I am comfortable in PDP – Makinde declares after meeting Tinubu