Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has described the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state as a time for reflection, thanksgiving, and renewed dedication to sustainable development.
In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday to commemorate the Golden Jubilee, Abiodun said the milestone marked five decades of purposeful existence anchored on the vision, sacrifices, and collective resolve of the people of the Gateway State.
He recalled that Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, from the old Western Region, noting that its emergence was driven by a clear sense of purpose and destiny. According to the governor, the 50th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate past achievements while positioning the state for a more prosperous future.
Abiodun expressed gratitude to God and paid tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steering the country at a time when several states, including Ogun, are marking 50 years of creation. He prayed for divine guidance and strength for the President as he implements the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The governor acknowledged the contributions of past leaders to the growth and stability of Ogun State, commending the efforts of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, and other civilian and military administrators who played key roles at different stages of the state’s development.
He said Ogun State has earned its reputation as a fountain of excellence, having produced distinguished national and global figures such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, Tai Solarin, among others. He also celebrated the impact of women from the state, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, whom he described as trailblazers and sources of inspiration.
According to Abiodun, political stability, religious tolerance, and inclusive governance have remained hallmarks of Ogun State, fostering a peaceful environment that supports growth and investment.
He noted that education has remained central to the state’s identity, adding that Ogun has evolved into Nigeria’s education hub with a large concentration of federal, state, and private tertiary institutions. He also highlighted the state’s strategic location and expanding industrial base as major drivers of economic growth.
The governor said his administration has made infrastructure development a priority, 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 projects such as the Kajola and Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Ports, as well as plans for the Olokola Deep Sea Port, are expected to further boost economic activities.
Abiodun disclosed that Ogun State’s economy is now valued at about ₦17 trillion, while Internally Generated Revenue has grown from roughly ₦52 billion in 2020 to about ₦250 billion by the end of 2025. He said notable progress has also been recorded in healthcare, education, housing, agriculture, power supply, security, and social empowerment.
While celebrating the achievements of the past 50 years, the governor called on residents to remain united and committed to the continued development of the state. He urged young people to uphold the values of hard work and responsibility, while appreciating elders and pioneers for laying a solid foundation.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive, transparent, and people-focused governance, describing the Golden Jubilee as both a celebration of progress and a call for renewal among all citizens of Ogun State.
