Ogun Shines at 50: Jubilee Carnival Showcases Unity, Culture, State Pride in Abeokuta
In a vivid display of unity and cultural pride, Ogun State marked its 50th Anniversary on Thursday February 5, with a spectacular cultural carnival and road show that brought the streets of Abeokuta alive with colour, music, and heritage.
The celebrations featured six intricately decorated floats representing the State’s key regions — Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba (RIYE) — alongside a symbolic fish float honoring the Riverine Communities. The procession highlighted Ogun’s diverse cultural identity and longstanding traditions.
At a reception held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Governor Dapo Abiodun praised the people of Ogun for their resilience and creativity, crediting them for the State’s steady progress. He described the carnival as a symbol of Ogun’s organisational capacity and cultural strength, reflecting its achievements in both social and economic spheres.
“From our performance during the National Sports Festival to today’s jubilee carnival, Ogun State continues to demonstrate that it is a Gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity, tourism, and cultural awakening,” the Governor said. “What we witnessed today has been remarkable, spectacular, and truly inspiring.”
Governor Abiodun acknowledged past leaders for laying the foundations of development and commended civil servants for their dedication in building a thriving economy. He emphasized that decades of sacrifice and collective effort have shaped Ogun into a proud cultural and economic hub.
The Golden Jubilee carnival aimed to promote unity, heritage, and resilience. Over 3,000 participants from all 20 Local Government Areas took part, joined by traditional dancers, drummers, masquerades, folkloric performers, skaters, and bikers, creating a lively and festive atmosphere across the city.
The highlight of the day was a grand procession moving from Oke-Igbein through Omida and Oke-Ilewo, concluding at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. The Arena came alive with acrobatic displays, live music, and cultural performances, delighting spectators and reinforcing Ogun State’s reputation as a beacon of heritage, pride, and progress.
