…calls for unity and citizen responsibility, promises inclusive growth and lasting legacy
The Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has charged the people of Oyo State to embrace responsibility, unity and service as the state begins activities to commemorate its 50th anniversary, describing the Golden Jubilee as a defining moment to secure a stronger future for generations yet unborn.
The governor gave the charge at the opening ceremony of the Oyo State at 50 celebration held at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan, where he called on citizens to see the anniversary not merely as a celebration of history, but as a collective commitment to renewal, progress and lasting legacy.
Speaking on behalf of the people of the state, Governor Makinde outlined a series of commitments aimed at guiding Oyo State through the next five decades.
He pledged that his administration would continue to build a stronger and more competitive economy that creates jobs, attracts investment and expands opportunities for residents.
He also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to sustained infrastructure development, quality education that prepares children for the future, and the strengthening of institutions capable of enduring beyond any administration.
According to him, peace, security, good governance and fiscal responsibility would remain central to ensuring that Oyo State remains safe, stable and open for business.
“Above all, we are committed to ensuring that the next 50 years deliver greater prosperity, fairness, dignity and hope for every citizen of Oyo State,” the governor stated.
Governor Makinde described the Golden Jubilee as more than a milestone, noting that it represents a moment of reflection, responsibility and renewal.
He said his personal journey and values have been shaped by the state over the last five decades, both as a citizen and as a public servant.
He recalled benefiting from the free education policy of the late Chief Bola Ige, which enabled him to attend Bishop Phillips Academy in 1980 without paying school fees. According to the governor, the provision of free textbooks, furniture and learning materials played a significant role in shaping his belief in the power of good governance and equal opportunity.
The governor also drew attention to tributes shared by residents and friends of Oyo State on the digital tribute platform created for the anniversary, describing the stories as a reflection of the resilience, enterprise and sense of belonging that define the state.
Among the stories highlighted was that of Toluwaloju Foluso, who came to Oyo State as a National Youth Service Corps member in 2021 and invested his allowance in learning fashion design during his service year.
Today, he runs a business in the state that employs eight young people.
Another tribute, from Ogunronbi Oluwaseun, reflected the quiet pride of citizens whose lives have been born, raised and educated in Oyo State.
“These stories are not just tributes; they are evidence of opportunity, enterprise, hope and belonging,” the governor said.
Governor Makinde noted that Oyo State has, in recent years, moved from promises to performance, recording measurable progress in economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, fiscal discipline and the restoration of public trust in government.
He used the occasion to commend service commanders and security agencies in the state for their sacrifices and dedication to maintaining peace and security, assuring them of the government’s continued support.
As the week-long celebration gets underway, the governor urged all residents to actively participate in the anniversary activities, adding that the grand finale of the Oyo State at 50 celebration will take place on Tuesday, February 3.
He concluded by expressing hope that history would record that at 50, Oyo State chose courage, service and legacy, and that future generations would look back with pride at a people who saw the future and deliberately built it.
Earlier in his welcome address, The Chairman Oyo at 50th planning committee, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, highlighted the historical significance, leadership, and progress of the state.
He emphasized the current administration’s role in redefining governance and driving development, adding that the celebration is a declaration of intent for progress.
In his remarks, The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja called for renewed recognition of past political leaders and unsung heroes who contributed to the growth and development of the state, urging residents to remember their sacrifices and continue their work for a better future.
Oba Ladoja who reflected on the political history of the state and the role played by civilian administrators in shaping its past and present, stressing the importance of honouring those whose efforts laid the foundation for the state’s progress.
Olubadan of Ibadan, who is also a former Governor of Oyo State, traced the leaders journey of the state from the Second Republic, begining with the late Chief Bola Ige, who served with Chief S.M. Afolabi as his deputy, and later Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, who had Olatunji Mohammed as his deputy.
He also recalled leaders of the Third Republic, including Chief Kolapo Adewuyi Ishola and his deputy, Ahmed Gbadamosi, as well as subsequent administrations that included former Governor Rashidi Ladoja with Alhaji Iyiola Oladokun as deputy, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala with Taofeek Arapaja as deputy, and Senator Isiaq Abiola Ajimobi with Hon. Moses Alake Adeyemo as his deputy.
Family members of former Governors, Traditional and Religious leaders, top government functionaries, political gladiators, were among people that present to celebrate Oyo State that was created on 3rd of February, 1976, from the former Western Region of Nigeria, with Ibadan serving as its administrative capital.
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