Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has described the Golden Jubilee of the creation of Ogun State as a defining moment for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to sustainable development.
In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday to mark the state’s 50th anniversary, Governor Abiodun said the milestone represents five decades of purposeful existence anchored on vision, sacrifice, and the collective resolve of the people of the Gateway State.
Recalling that Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, out of the former Western Region, the governor noted that its emergence was driven by clarity of purpose and a strong sense of destiny.
He said the Golden Jubilee offers a unique opportunity to celebrate past achievements while laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and inclusive future.
The governor expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God and paid tribute to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for steering the nation at a historic moment when several states, including Ogun, are commemorating 50 years of statehood.
He prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the President in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Abiodun acknowledged the invaluable contributions of past leaders to the growth and stability of the state, singling out former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, and other civilian and military administrators who guided Ogun State through various stages of its development.
He described Ogun State as a renowned fountain of excellence, having produced distinguished personalities of national and global repute, including Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, Tai Solarin, among many others.
The governor also celebrated the enduring legacy of women from the state, particularly iconic figures such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, whom he described as trailblazers who shattered barriers and inspired generations.
According to Abiodun, political stability, religious tolerance, and inclusive governance have remained hallmarks of Ogun State, fostering peace and creating an enabling environment for growth, innovation, and investment.
He noted that education has long been central to the state’s identity, adding that Ogun has evolved into Nigeria’s education capital, hosting numerous federal, state, and private tertiary institutions. He also highlighted the state’s strategic location and expanding industrial base as key drivers of its economic growth.
Governor Abiodun disclosed that his administration has placed strong emphasis on infrastructure development, with more than 1,600 kilometres of roads constructed or rehabilitated across the state.
He added that the Gateway International Airport has been completed and certified, while major projects such as the Kajola and Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Ports, alongside plans for the Olokola Deep Sea Port, are expected to further boost economic activities.
He revealed that Ogun State’s economy is now estimated at approximately ₦17 trillion, with Internally Generated Revenue rising significantly from about ₦52 billion in 2020 to nearly ₦250 billion by the end of 2025.
He also noted substantial improvements across critical sectors, including healthcare, education, housing, agriculture, power, security, and social empowerment.
While celebrating the achievements of the past five decades, the governor called on residents to remain united and steadfast in their commitment to the state’s continued progress.
He urged the youth to uphold the values of diligence and responsibility, while commending elders and pioneers for laying a strong foundation for today’s successes.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and people-centred governance, describing the Golden Jubilee not only as a celebration of history but also as a call to renewal and collective responsibility for all citizens of Ogun State.
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