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Oyo State

Map of Oyo State, Nigeria
Map of Oyo State, Nigeria

Oyo State, known as the “Pace Setter State,” is a historic center of Yoruba culture, governance, and academia. As home to West Africa’s first skyscraper and its first premier university, Oyo remains a vital driver of Nigeria’s agricultural and intellectual output. Naija News provides 24/7 coverage of the state’s urban renewal projects, agrarian reforms, and political landscape.

Quick Facts & Profile

Category Details
Current Governor Seyi Makinde (PDP)
Capital Ibadan
Founded February 3, 1976
Slogan Pace Setter State
Geopolitical Zone South West
Area 28,454 km²
Population ~8.2 Million+ (Estimated)
ISO Code NG-OY

Geography and Borders

Oyo State is landlocked but shares an international border with the Republic of Benin to the west. Domestically, it is bordered by Kwara State to the north, Osun State to the east, and Ogun State to the south.

Governance: From 1976 to Date

Created from the old Western State, Oyo has been a cornerstone of Nigerian politics:

  • David Jemibewon (1976–1978): The first Military Governor.
  • Bola Ige (1979–1983): The “Cicero of Agodi,” known for free education policies.
  • Lam Adesina (1999–2003): Led the state at the start of the Fourth Republic.
  • Rashidi Ladoja & Alao Akala (2003–2011): A period defined by intense political shifts and infrastructure expansion.
  • Abiola Ajimobi (2011–2019): The first governor to serve two consecutive terms in the state.
  • Seyi Makinde (2019–Present): Currently leading with a focus on “Omituntun 2.0,” emphasizing economic expansion and data-led governance.

Education and Landmarks

Oyo hosts the University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria’s first university, and the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH). Notable landmarks include the Cocoa House (the first skyscraper in tropical Africa), the Agodi Gardens, and the ancient Aalaafin’s Palace in Oyo.