Ogun Golden Jubilee: Abiodun, Stakeholders Reflect on 50 Years of Growth, Unity, Shared Progress

Ogun State’s 50th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday brought together political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders who reflected on the State’s developmental journey, as Governor Dapo Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and balanced development.

Speaking at the State Banquet held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Gov. Abiodun described the Golden Jubilee as a moment of gratitude, reflection and renewed purpose.

He traced Ogun State’s evolution since its creation on February 3, 1976, noting that the State has grown into Nigeria’s industrial capital through deliberate planning, sustained investments and policy consistency.

The Governor said his Administration has focused on people-centred development, with priority given to human capital development, education, healthcare, housing, agriculture, road infrastructure and sports. According to him, these efforts have resulted in significant progress across sectors since 2019.

Abiodun emphasised that development projects and programmes have been evenly distributed across Ogun West, Ogun East and Ogun Central, stressing that fairness, equity and justice remain the guiding principles of his leadership.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Ogun State. I remain committed to fulfilling every promise made and to governing with fairness, equity and justice, ensuring that no part of the State is left behind,” the Governor said.

He also highlighted the rising global profile of Adire fabric, describing it as a symbol of Ogun’s cultural rebirth and a growing contributor to the State’s creative economy and international visibility.

Calling for continued public support, Abiodun pledged to build on the vision of the State’s founding fathers and position Ogun as a reference point for sustainable development and good governance in Nigeria.

In her remarks, Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, commended previous administrations for laying strong foundations for the State’s growth and thanked residents for their trust and support of the present Government.

Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, described Ogun’s 50-year development journey as impressive, noting that the State has recorded notable progress in governance, infrastructure and institutional development.

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, said the creation of additional judicial divisions across the State has enhanced access to justice and strengthened the rule of law.

Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, observed that Ogun’s industrial strength and quality human resources have positioned it as one of Nigeria’s leading States, with strong prospects for continued growth.

Speaking on behalf of former Deputy Governors, Senator Sefiu Kaka praised the consistency of leadership in Ogun State and commended the Abiodun administration for its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.

The Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, applauded the transformation of Abeokuta and improvements in security, urging the Government to sustain the current pace of development.

Several dignitaries at the event, including former Military Administrator, Col. Daniel Akintonde (rtd), industrialist S.K. Onafowokan, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola and Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, also commended the progress recorded by the State over the past five decades.

The Golden Jubilee celebration featured a colourful cultural performance titled Golden Strides, the cutting of the 50th Anniversary cake led by former Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and musical performances by renowned artistes, adding glamour to the historic occasion.