Oyo At 50 As Makinde Celebrate Progress, Opportunities, Community Achievements With Residents

By Joseph Sunday 

Oyo State has marked a remarkable milestone celebration of its 50th anniversary, since its creation on May 27, 1967 with the residents of the State. 

The golden jubilee shows its achievements and sets the stage for a future of opportunity, prosperity, and progress.

His excellency Governor Seyi Makinde described the golden jubilee as a time to reflect on the past, celebrate progress, and plan for the future. 

He also described the 50th anniversary as a celebration of the State’s achievements while setting a roadmap for the next generation.

The event that took place in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Monday saw Governor Seyi Makinde praising the security agencies and service commanders in the State for maintaining peace and stability across the state.

Makinde also highlighted the success stories of residents and young entrepreneurs. 

He cited a former corp member who launched a fashion business during his service year and now employs several young people. 

According to the Governor, he said the stories shows how Oyo State has become a place of opportunity and hope.

He also reflected on his personal journey, noting that he benefited from Oyo State’s public education system during the free education era in the Western States under the late Chief Awolowo. 

He tied his achievements to the policies of the past administrations, emphasizing that investing in education and youth development creates leaders and innovators.

Reviewing his administration’s record, Makinde said Oyo State has moved from promises to performance, citing improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, fiscal discipline, and public trust. 

He led residents pledging committing to the state and to economic growth, good governance, social inclusion, and community empowerment.

Former Governor and traditional ruler, the current 44th Olubadan of Ibadan Kingdom, Oba Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, reminded attendees of the sacrifices made by past leaders and unsung heroes who built the state. 

He encouraged citizens to continue the work of those who laid the foundation for Oyo’s stability, culture, and development. “Some people took the first steps, and they are gone. Now it is our turn to continue the journey,” he said.

Honourable Saheed Akinade Fijabi, Chairman of the Oyo State @ 50 Committee, praised the state’s stability and economic progress. 

He highlighted agricultural programs, community development initiatives, and sound financial management that have empowered citizens and attracted investors. “Oyo State is positioning itself as a model sub-national economy,” he said.

Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Akinyele commended Governor Makinde’s people-focused leadership, noting visible improvements in road infrastructure, economic growth, and welfare for workers and retirees. 

She emphasized that timely salary payments and development in rural towns and cities demonstrate the administration’s commitment to all citizens.

The celebrations brought together christians, muslim, and traditional prayers, reflecting Oyo State’s cultural and religious diversity. 

Dignitaries and stakeholders praised the state’s past leaders and citizens whose dedication shaped its history. The golden jubilee, they said, is not only a celebration of the past but a call to action for a future built on opportunity, prosperity, and inclusive growth.