According to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the state’s 50th anniversary was an homage to the state’s tenacity and the collective sacrifices of generations that have defined its development since 1976 rather than a celebration of any one person, government, or political party.
The governor insisted that the state’s journey was far from over while speaking at the grand finale of the 10-day Oyo at 50 celebrations. He said the milestone represented a turning point and the beginning of a new chapter.
“I am reminded of a simple but enduring truth as we draw to a close this phase of activities marking the 10-day celebration of Oyo State at 50: governments come and go, administrations begin and end, but the state remains,” Makinde remarked.
He thanked party leaders, other governors, dignitaries, and attendees for attending what he called a momentous occasion in the state’s history.
The governor said the occasion was about continuity and shared responsibility rather than individual or partisan accomplishments.
“The accomplishment of a single government is not what we are honoring tonight. It is neither a celebration of a particular moment in time nor the accomplishment of a single political party.
Instead, he declared, “We are celebrating a living state, one that has been shaped by many hands, strengthened by many sacrifices, and propelled forward by generations of people who believed that Oyo State could always be better than it was yesterday.”
Makinde examined the state’s evolution from its founding in 1976, honoring early military leaders like General David Jemibewon as well as later civilian and military regimes.
According to him, every administration made contributions to the establishment of institutions and the advancement of social development, education, and public service.
“Every government has contributed its share since its founding in 1976, starting with the early military administrations headed by trailblazers like General David Jemibewon.”
Both military and civilian regimes constructed institutions, established foundations, and promoted social development, education, and public service. According to Makinde, “what we see today is the result of collective effort across generations.”
As a recipient of Oyo State’s free education program, the governor shared his personal thoughts on the effects of state policy.
“I went to secondary school from 1980 to 1985, and the lessons I learned there helped me shape who I am now. In Oyo State, I received a free education. Even though many of us had no idea how far we would go, we are now living examples of the strength of opportunity.
Makinde pointed out that subsequent administrations concentrated on reestablishing democratic institutions, bolstering governance, and attending more directly to the concerns of the populace following the return to democratic rule in 1999.
He said that urban development, economic restructuring, security reforms, and infrastructure rebuilding became top concerns.
The governor noted that despite times of conflict and institutional testing, the state had always come out stronger.
Additionally, let us keep in mind that Oyo State has experienced times of stress, change, and institutional testing. We came out stronger, smarter, and more dedicated to stability and advancement each time,” he remarked.
The governor claimed that by implementing long-term, system-driven infrastructure projects, especially in the areas of transportation and economic growth, the current administration was continuing that heritage.
“By delivering long-term, system-driven infrastructure, transportation reforms, and economic projects that will be commissioned throughout this anniversary year, we are building on that legacy today,” he stated.
Makinde declared the event a renewed commitment to the future, rejecting the idea that 50 years signified the end of the state’s journey.
Some people might believe that a journey ends after 50 years. I don’t agree. This is just the start. This anniversary represents a renewed commitment to future generations, not a celebration of individual accomplishments.
He described the refurbished international airport as a vital gateway for the state and said it would be fully commissioned in the upcoming months.
“We will formally commission the upgraded international airport in the upcoming months, giving Oyo State a vital gateway to the world.”
With a fixed timeframe for the first phase, Makinde added that important portions of the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road would be completed within the anniversary year.
Additionally, we will keep working on and commissioning important portions of the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, an infrastructure project that will revolutionize transportation, logistics, and economic development in Ibadan and beyond. Yes, before the end of March 2026, the first section of this road will be put into service.
toward security, the governor revealed developments toward the purchase of a surveillance plane to improve statewide surveillance.
“We discussed the development of the surveillance aircraft purchased to improve security with the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.”
The ship is now in Lagos and will be delivered shortly. This would greatly improve surveillance both deep within our state and across border areas.
He added that as part of initiatives to enhance public transportation, new electric buses would be introduced later this year.
He added, “As part of our commitment to expanding transport infrastructure and ensuring that public transportation remains efficient and affordable for our people, modern electric buses will be delivered later in the year.”
Makinde emphasized that sustainable systems, not transient displays, should be the foundation of governance, saying, “We have many projects in the pipeline because development is not a spectacle, it is a system.” Additionally, systems that are created for the people rather than for politicians or appearances endure.
The governor stated that service to the state would survive political office while speaking to young people and award recipients during the ceremony.
“The lesson for the award recipients and the younger generation watching is straightforward: you will be remembered if you do good for Oyo State. I’ve given this state my all, and I’m sure that coming generations will remember that someone stood here and made the decision to serve.
He expressed gratitude to the state’s citizens, whom he referred to as the unwavering force in Oyo’s history, as well as to the leaders of the past and present.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who came before us, to those who are currently serving, and to the people of Oyo State, who continue to be the driving force behind our common path. I hope Oyo State keeps growing. May our solidarity continue to be our power. “May the upcoming half-century surpass the previous one,” Makinde remarked.
