Golden Jubilee Begins: What We Saw at the Oyo @ 50 Opening Ceremony

The Oyo State Government on Monday officially kicked off activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state, with Governor Seyi Makinde reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous future anchored on strong institutions, inclusive development and sustainable growth.

The opening ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, set the tone for the golden jubilee celebrations, which the governor described as both a moment of celebration and an opportunity for deep reflection on the state’s journey over the last five decades.

Governor Makinde said the Oyo @ 50 milestone was not only about celebrating the identity, resilience and progress of the state, but also about renewing collective commitment to ensuring that the next 50 years deliver greater prosperity, dignity and hope for every resident of Oyo State. He noted that the anniversary was deeply personal to him, having lived in the state throughout its existence and benefitted directly from policies implemented by past administrations.

Speaking on how the state shaped his life, Makinde recalled his experience under the free education policy of the late Chief Bola Ige, which enabled him to attend Bishop Philips Academy in 1980 without paying tuition. According to him, the opportunity he received as a child instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty to give back to the state that invested in his future.

The governor stressed that his administration remains focused on translating vision into measurable progress, noting that Oyo State has moved from promises to performance in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development and fiscal discipline. He said the celebration was not only about honouring the past but about deliberately securing the future.

“As we mark this golden jubilee, we commit ourselves to a future built on strong institutions, sustainable growth, empowered young people, inclusive development and lasting stability,” Makinde said, adding that the state would continue to pursue a competitive economy that creates jobs, attracts investment and expands opportunities for its people.

He further pledged continued commitment to peace, security, good governance and fiscal responsibility, assuring that Oyo State would remain safe, stable and open for business. The governor also expressed appreciation to individuals and groups who have made sacrifices over the years to ensure the safety, unity and progress of the state.

In his goodwill message, former Governor of Oyo State and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, commended past military administrators, civilian governors and political leaders for their contributions to the development of the state. He said the collective sacrifices of leaders and citizens alike laid the foundation upon which Oyo State continues to grow.

Other goodwill messages were delivered by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Hon. Justice R. B. Akintola; Chairman of BOVAS Group, Arch. Segun Bamidele; and Chief (Mrs) Elizabeth Akinyele. They praised Governor Makinde for institutionalising the Oyo @ 50 celebration and ensuring that the legacies of past leaders are formally recognised.

According to them, the Makinde administration’s focus on workers’ welfare, pension reforms, infrastructure development and economic expansion has strengthened security and reinforced Oyo State’s reputation as a pacesetter among its peers.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyo State @ 50 Anniversary Committee and former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, said the celebration was designed to honour past leaders and administrations that, under varying circumstances, contributed to the growth of the state in governance, education, agriculture, infrastructure and public service.

He described Governor Makinde’s leadership as people-centred, highlighting achievements in infrastructure renewal, education revitalisation, improved healthcare access, strengthened security architecture, economic reforms, increased internally generated revenue and a renewed focus on agriculture and agribusiness. He added that Oyo State is demonstrating how good governance can drive rapid transformation at the sub-national level.

The event attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, including a former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal and his wife; representatives of former military administrators and past governors; lawmakers from the National Assembly; traditional rulers; religious leaders; service commanders; labour leaders; senior government officials and political stakeholders from across the state.