Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has characterized the state’s 50th anniversary of founding as a moment of renewal and a commitment to future generations rather than being a personal or administrative accomplishment.
The governor made this announcement during the grand finale of the Oyo @ 50 celebrations on Tuesday at the newly built Government House Banquet Hall in Ibadan, which included a Dinner and Awards Night attended by notable individuals, former leaders, traditional rulers, political office holders, and other distinguished guests.
Governor Makinde emphasized that the Oyo anniversary celebration represents a community milestone and a renewed commitment to the state’s future, rather than a personal accomplishment or the accomplishment of a particular administration.
“This celebration is not about one government or one political party. It is not about personal achievements. Oyo @ 50 represents a renewed promise to future generations that we will continue to build a state that is stronger, more inclusive and better than it was yesterday,” the governor said.
Makinde described Oyo State as a living entity formed by generations of sacrifice and leadership, pointing out that while governments may change, the state remains because of its institutions and citizens.
He revealed that a number of significant infrastructure projects would be put into service before the end of the first quarter of this year in order to improve transportation, logistics, and economic growth in Ibadan and other areas of the state.
“Before the end of the first quarter, we will be commissioning key projects, including the upgrade of the Ladoke Akintola International Airport and critical sections of the 32-kilometre Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. These projects will significantly improve connectivity, boost commerce and reposition Oyo State as a major economic hub,” Makinde said.
The governor also disclosed that in order to improve the state’s security framework, especially in border and isolated areas, his administration had acquired surveillance aircraft.
“Security remains a top priority for us. We have procured surveillance aircraft that will enhance our capacity to monitor our environment and respond proactively to security challenges,” he said.
Makinde also said that the state’s transportation infrastructure will soon be expanded, and that residents would have access to effective, dependable, and reasonably priced public transportation.
“Development is not a spectacle; it is a system. And systems endure when they are designed for the people, not for politics or optics,” the governor added.
Earlier in his welcome speech, Hon. Saheed Fijabi, the chairman of the Oyo @ 50 Planning Committee, praised Governor Makinde for his steadfast leadership and support, characterizing his dedication as essential to the success of the golden jubilee festivities.
“The success of Oyo @ 50 is largely due to the governor’s vision, encouragement and consistent support. He gave us the confidence and resources needed to deliver a celebration befitting the Pacesetter State,” Fijabi said.
AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the governor of Kwara State and chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, commended Governor Makinde for strategically developing infrastructure to return Oyo State to its rightful position.
“Governor Makinde has demonstrated that with clear vision and discipline, a state can reclaim its pride of place. Oyo State is once again setting the pace,” AbdulRazaq noted, urging young people to emulate leaders with genuine plans for sustainable development.
Similarly, retired General Oluwole Rotimi, a former military governor of the former Western Region, commended the Oyo State administration and populace, pointing out that the state’s leaders will always be remembered for their unique achievements.
“Oyo State has always been at the forefront. The challenge is to maintain this leadership position and continue to pursue progress that benefits all,” Jemibewon said.
Additionally, in separate goodwill letters, former Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr. Emmanuel Udom and his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Alao-Akala, praised Governor Makinde’s government and called his term “exceptional and transformative.”
They pointed out that the governor’s unprecedented infrastructural and institutional reforms have significantly improved the fortunes of the state.
As part of the occasion, previous governors and other notable individuals received Awards of Excellence for their exceptional contributions to Oyo State’s growth.
Retired Major General David Jemibewon awarded him with the Golden Governor’s Award on behalf of other former governors in honor of Governor Makinde’s outstanding leadership and dedication to the state’s advancement.
A historical retrospective exhibition, an exhilarating aircraft air show, the cutting of the Oyo @ 50 anniversary cake, and a mesmerizing musical performance by Juju music icon Chief Ebenezer Obey, who captivated visitors with his ageless melodies, were some of the other highlights of the vibrant evening.
The state’s rich history, tenacity, and shared resolve to create a prosperous future for future generations are all highlighted by the Oyo @ 50 celebrations.
