Poverty as the Worst Enemy of Humanity
Poverty is widely regarded as one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity. It is not just a lack of financial resources, but a complex web of deprivations that affect various aspects of life. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report from 2022 highlighted that 133 million people in the country are multi-dimensionally poor, accounting for 63% of the population. Of these, 86 million live in the North, while nearly 47 million reside in the South.
The NBS defines poverty through a multi-dimensional lens, focusing on non-monetary deprivations such as health, education, living standards, work, and shocks. This approach aligns with global perspectives, including those of the United Nations and the World Bank. According to the United Nations, poverty is a denial of choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity. It means lacking enough to feed and clothe a family, not having access to schools or clinics, and being unable to grow food or earn a living.
The World Bank describes poverty as a profound deprivation in well-being across multiple dimensions. It includes low incomes, inability to acquire basic goods and services, and poor access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. These definitions highlight that poverty stems from exclusion, leading to a cycle of deprivation that is difficult to break.
The Makinde Dimension
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has taken a proactive approach to tackle poverty by focusing on four pillars: Health, Education, Economic Expansion, and Security. His strategies, outlined in the Oyo State Roadmap to Accelerated Development 2019-2023 and Oyo State Roadmap to Sustainable Development 2023-2027, have significantly improved the quality of life for residents.
Healthcare
Makinde’s administration has implemented the ‘One Ward One Primary Health Care Centre’ strategy, ensuring healthcare services reach every resident. Over the past six and a half years, almost 300 PHCs have been upgraded, with 264 fully equipped. Level 3 facilities provide comprehensive care, including accommodation for healthcare providers, potable water, and electricity. Solar panels and generators have been installed to ensure a constant power supply. The state government has also upgraded secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities, providing free medical services to over two million people through the annual Omituntun Free Health Mission.
Nutrition
To improve food security, the Makinde administration has supported smallholder farmers through policies like tractorisation subsidies and digital soil testing initiatives. Over 10,000 farmers have received agricultural inputs, including cassava stems, maize seeds, and fertilizers. The state has also provided agric credit loans and supported poultry, fish, and swine farmers, resulting in one of the lowest food inflation rates in the country in February 2025.
Education
Governor Makinde made education free at the primary and secondary levels, leading to the return of over 80,000 out-of-school children. The state has allocated significant funds to education, renovated classrooms, and provided free textbooks. Tertiary institutions have also benefited, with salary arrears paid and bursaries awarded to students. LAUTECH was transferred to Oyo State Government, marking a turning point for the university.
Water Supply
The Water Corporation of Oyo State has restored water supply to parts of the state. While challenges remain, particularly with electricity, efforts continue to improve pipe-borne water supply. Eleyele, Erelu, and Eruwa waterworks are functional, and the state is working to address power issues.
Sanitation
Oyo State has enacted legislation and partnered with UNICEF and the World Bank to eliminate open defecation and improve WASH services. The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority enforces environmental laws, promoting a cleaner environment.
Employment
Makinde has created thousands of jobs, employing teachers, healthcare workers, and civil servants. The state has also recruited Amotekun operatives and police personnel, enhancing security and employment opportunities.
Security
Oyo State is known for its safety, thanks to Makinde’s collaboration with federal agencies. The establishment of the Police Mobile Force 72 Squadron and the Nigeria Air Force Base in Ajia has improved security. The state has donated patrol vehicles to monitor all areas effectively.
Road Infrastructure
Over the past six and a half years, close to 600km of roads have been constructed or reconstructed, connecting all zones in the state. Improved road networks have boosted economic development and reduced poverty, as per a study showing a 5.16 decline in poverty with a 10% increase in road infrastructure.
Inclusion
Through the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, vulnerable groups are protected against the financial burden of illness. Pensioners receive timely payments, and the state has impacted 1.13 million indigent families through conditional cash transfers and financial assistance.
Outcome
As a result of these efforts, Oyo State was ranked the most liveable in the country in the 2025 State Performance Index (pSPI) report. Governor Makinde’s commitment to improving the lives of Oyo State residents has transformed the state from poverty to prosperity.