Governor Seyi Makinde has attributed the development and progress recorded in Oyo State over the past five decades to the mercy of Allah and the collective resolve of its people.
The governor conveyed this message through his deputy, Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, on Friday at a special Jumat thanksgiving service held at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba, in Ibadan, as part of activities marking the state’s golden jubilee, tagged Oyo@50.
According to the deputy governor, the 50th anniversary provides a moment for gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment to good governance. He said the administration considers the milestone an opportunity to seek divine guidance for sustained development, peaceful coexistence and inclusive growth across Oyo State.
“This celebration is not only about the past but also about recommitting ourselves to a future of unity, progress and accountable leadership,” Lawal stated, while urging residents to continue supporting policies that promote stability and prosperity.
In his goodwill message, the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Senator Sarafadeen Alli, congratulated the people of the state on the 50-year milestone, describing it as a testament to resilience and shared aspirations. He offered prayers for continued peace and greater socioeconomic advancement.
Delivering the sermon at the Jumat service, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, commended Governor Makinde for marking the golden jubilee and for what he described as the administration’s commitment to religious tolerance. According to him, peaceful coexistence among adherents of different faiths has been a critical factor in the relative stability and achievements recorded by the state.
The cleric prayed for sustained harmony and development in Oyo State and also offered special prayers for both past and present leaders who have contributed to its growth since creation.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Oyo State @ 50 Anniversary Committee and two-term member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, expressed appreciation to residents for their support so far and urged them to remain actively engaged in the anniversary activities designed to showcase the state’s heritage and future potential.
The thanksgiving service attracted several dignitaries, including former governor of the state and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; former deputy governor, Hamid Gbadamosi; Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi.
Other top government functionaries in attendance were the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola; Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Prof. Solihu Adelabu; Chairman of the Oyo State Civil Service Commission, Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe; alongside senior officials, permanent secretaries and community leaders.