Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday openly acknowledged the transformation of Ibadan from its former rural-urban setting to a modern state capital, commending the Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, for the urban renewal programme of his administration.
Alhaji Abubakar, who spoke during a courtesy call on the governor in his office in Ibadan, said he had lived in the state capital for some time and knew what the ancient city used to be which had earned it the stigma of being the dirtiest city in Nigeria.
He, however, said that he was impressed with the new-look which Ibadan was wearing, saying "I have seen a lot of changes, with cleaner streets and green environment''.
The former Vice President also commended the governor for the distribution of 320 tractors to local government councils, a feat which he said would boost agriculture and ensure food security in the state.
"Honestly, I must commend you for the distribution of 320 tractors to local government councils. This is colossal. Agriculture is no doubt the mainstay of Nigeria's economy. So by doing this, you have succeeded in putting people to work and this, I am sure, will boost agriculture and ensure food security,'' he said.
Alhaji Abubakar also described the governor as a member of his political family, stressing that they had both come a long way and shared some things in common.
In his remarks, Governor Ajimobi said that aside nipping in the bud the security challenges which he faced on assumption of office, his administration had also succeeded in lifting Oyo from its old rural setting to a modern state and consequently restoring its lost pace setting status.
He described the former Vice President as a man of impeccable character, with simple disposition, urging him not to relent in his efforts at realizing his political ambition, notwithstanding the challenges he had been facing.
Via: Oyo State Government - Official Press Release