Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Monday charged political appointees and public servants in the state to intensify their efforts in the remaining months of his administration, urging them to finish strong and leave a lasting legacy for the people.

The governor gave the charge shortly after swearing in Dr Taiwo Olabode Ladipo as a commissioner at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Ladipo, a former Commissioner for Health and until his latest appointment the Permanent Secretary in charge of General Administration, was assigned to the Ministry of Establishment and Training, while Prof. Solihu Adelabu was redeployed to the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry.

Makinde described Ladipo’s return to the State Executive Council as another opportunity to contribute to the development of Oyo State, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver in his new assignment.

He noted that his administration would continue to appoint individuals whose competence and commitment align with the government’s vision of sustainable development and improved service delivery.

The governor also addressed the circumstances surrounding the vacancy that necessitated Ladipo’s appointment, explaining that changes in government appointments should be viewed as part of efforts to reposition the administration for greater efficiency rather than as punitive measures.

According to him, periodic restructuring is essential to ensure that government remains responsive to the expectations of the people and capable of delivering on its mandate.

Congratulating the new commissioner, Makinde urged him and other members of the cabinet to rededicate themselves to service, stressing that the administration must maximise the remaining period of Omituntun 2.0 by implementing policies and programmes that would have enduring impact.

He equally called on all political appointees and public servants to remain loyal to the administration, discharge their responsibilities diligently and continue to work for the growth and development of the state.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Adenike Fasina; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; commissioners, permanent secretaries and other senior government officials.