Oyo@50: Anniversary marks renewal, not personal achievement — Makinde

… it is a promise to future generations

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State as a moment of renewal and a commitment to future generations, rather than a personal or administrative achievement.

The governor made this known on Tuesday during the grand finale of the Oyo @ 50 celebrations held at the newly constructed Government House Banquet Hall, Ibadan, which featured a Dinner and Awards Night attended by eminent personalities, former leaders, traditional rulers, political office holders and other distinguished guests.

Governor Makinde stressed that the Oyo anniversary celebration is neither a personal achievement nor that of any single administration, but a collective milestone and a renewed commitment to the future of the state.

“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.

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Describing Oyo State as a living entity shaped by generations of leadership and sacrifice, Makinde noted that governments may come and go, but the state remains, sustained by institutions and the people.

He disclosed that several landmark infrastructure projects would be commissioned before the end of the first quarter of the year, aimed at transforming mobility, logistics and economic growth across Ibadan and other parts 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 stated.

The governor further revealed that his administration has acquired surveillance aircraft to strengthen the state’s security architecture, particularly in border and remote communities.

“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.

In addition, Makinde announced that modern electric buses would soon be deployed as part of efforts to expand the state’s transport infrastructure and provide efficient, reliable and affordable public transportation for residents.

“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 address, the Chairman of the Oyo @ 50 Planning Committee, Hon. Saheed Fijabi, commended Governor Makinde for his unwavering support and leadership, describing his commitment as pivotal to the success of the golden jubilee celebrations.

“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.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, praised Governor Makinde for restoring Oyo State to its rightful place through strategic infrastructural development.

“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, a former military governor of the old Western Region, retired General Oluwole Rotimi, congratulated the government and people of Oyo State, noting that history would continue to remember the state’s leaders for their distinctive contributions.

In his goodwill message, former Governor of Oyo State, retired Major General David Jemibewon, described Oyo State as a consistent pacesetter, urging successive administrations to sustain the tradition of excellence.

“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.

Also in separate goodwill messages, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Alao-Akala, wife of a former governor of the state, and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Emmanuel Udom, commended Governor Makinde’s administration, describing his tenure as exceptional and transformative.

They noted that the governor’s unprecedented infrastructural and institutional reforms have significantly improved the fortunes of the state.

As part of the event, Awards of Excellence were presented to former governors and other distinguished personalities in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the development of Oyo State.

Retired Major General David Jemibewon, on behalf of other past governors, presented Governor Makinde with the Golden Governor’s Award in recognition of his exemplary leadership and commitment to the growth and development of the state.

Other highlights of the colourful evening included a historical retrospective exhibition, a thrilling aircraft air show, the cutting of the Oyo @ 50 anniversary cake, and a captivating musical performance by Juju music legend, Chief Ebenezer Obey, who delighted guests with his timeless melodies.

The Oyo @ 50 celebrations continue to underscore the state’s rich history, enduring resilience and collective determination to build a prosperous future for generations to come.