Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing a better future for Oyo State, anchored on strong institutions, sustainable economic growth, youth empowerment, inclusive development, and lasting stability.
Makinde spoke at the opening ceremony of the Oyo State at 50 celebrations held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, describing the golden jubilee as both a moment of celebration and a call to renew the state’s development agenda.
According to the governor, the anniversary represents a milestone in Oyo State’s journey over the past five decades, highlighting its identity, resilience, sacrifices, and progress, while also providing an opportunity for sober reflection on the work ahead.
He noted that the occasion was deeply personal, having lived his entire life in the state, and pledged that his government would work tirelessly to ensure that the next 50 years deliver greater prosperity, fairness, dignity and hope to every citizen.
“From strengthening our economy to expanding infrastructure, from improving education and healthcare to restoring fiscal discipline and public trust, Oyo State has moved from promises to performance and from potential to measurable progress,” Makinde said.
Competitive Economy, Enduring Institutions
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue a competitive economy capable of creating jobs, attracting investments, and expanding opportunities across sectors. He added that infrastructure development, forward-looking education, and durable institutions would remain central to his governance philosophy.
Makinde further stressed that, even as the state celebrates its past, it is laying a firmer foundation for the future through commitments to peace, security, good governance, and fiscal responsibility – policies he said are critical to sustaining Oyo State as a safe and investment-friendly destination.
“We commit to a state that remains safe, stable, and open for business. Above all, we are determined to ensure that the next 50 years deliver prosperity, dignity, and hope for every citizen,” he declared.
Tributes from Leaders and Stakeholders
In his goodwill message, former governor of Oyo State and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, commended past military and civilian administrators, political actors, and other stakeholders whose sacrifices, he said, shaped the fortunes of the state.
Other speakers, including the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, and the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented), praised Makinde’s administration for prioritising workers’ welfare, pension reforms, infrastructure expansion, and economic growth.
They noted that these policies have contributed significantly to security improvements and helped sustain Oyo State’s reputation as a pacesetter among sub-national governments in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyo State at 50 Anniversary Committee, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, said the celebrations were designed to honour past leaders while inspiring citizens to embrace a future driven by industrialisation, infrastructure-led growth, and policy stability.
The event drew a broad spectrum of dignitaries, including serving and former public office holders, members of the House of Representatives, commissioners, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security chiefs, labour leaders, and other prominent stakeholders across the state.