Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has stated that the state’s 50th anniversary was not meant to celebrate any individual, administration or political party, but rather to honour the resilience of the state and the collective sacrifices of generations that have contributed to its development since 1976.
The governor made this known at the grand finale of the 10-day Oyo at 50 celebrations, describing the milestone as both a reflection point and the beginning of a fresh chapter in the state’s journey, which he said is far from complete.
“As we draw the curtain on this phase of activities marking the 10-day celebration of Oyo State at 50, I am reminded of a simple but enduring truth: governments come and go, administrations begin and end, but the state remains,” Makinde said.
He acknowledged the presence of party leaders, fellow governors, dignitaries and guests, expressing gratitude for their participation in what he described as a historic moment for the state.
According to Makinde, the anniversary was not about celebrating personal accomplishments or partisan success, but about continuity and shared responsibility across generations.
“What we are celebrating tonight is not the achievement of one government. It is not the achievement of one political party, nor is it a celebration of a single moment in time.”
“Rather, we are celebrating a living state, one 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,” he said.
Tracing the state’s growth to its creation in 1976, the governor paid tribute to early military administrators such as General David Jemibewon, as well as successive civilian and military governments.
“From its creation in 1976, beginning with the early military administrations led by pioneers such as General David Jemibewon, each government has contributed its quota.”
He added that successive administrations laid strong foundations by building institutions and advancing public service delivery, education and social development.
“Successive administrations, military and civilian alike, laid foundations, built institutions, and advanced public service, education and social development. What we see today is the result of collective effort across generations,” Makinde said.
Reflecting personally, the governor described himself as a beneficiary of Oyo State’s free education policy, which he said played a key role in shaping his future.
“I attended secondary school between 1980 and 1985, and the foundation laid during that period shaped who I later became. I am a product of free education in Oyo State. Many of us never imagined how far we would go, but today we stand as living testimonies to the power of opportunity.”
Makinde noted that following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, successive governments focused on rebuilding democratic institutions, strengthening governance and addressing citizens’ needs more directly.
He said infrastructure renewal, security reforms, urban development and economic restructuring became major priorities during that period.
The governor recalled that Oyo State had experienced moments of tension and institutional strain but had consistently emerged stronger.
“Let us also remember that Oyo State has passed through moments of tension, transition and institutional testing. Each time, we emerged stronger, wiser and more committed to stability and progress,” he said.
Makinde explained that his administration is building on that legacy through long-term, system-based infrastructure projects, particularly in transport and economic development.
“Today, we are building on that legacy by delivering long-term, system-driven infrastructure, transport reforms and economic projects that will be commissioned throughout this anniversary year,” he said.
Dismissing the idea that 50 years marked an endpoint, the governor described the anniversary as a renewed commitment to the future.
“Some may think that 50 years marks the end of a journey. I disagree. This is only the beginning. This anniversary is not about personal achievements; it is a renewed promise to future generations.”
He announced that the state’s upgraded international airport would be formally commissioned in the coming months, describing it as a major gateway to the world.
“In the coming months, we will formally commission the upgraded international airport, providing Oyo State with a critical gateway to the world.”
Makinde also disclosed that key sections of the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road would be completed within the anniversary year, with a clear timeline for the first phase.
“We will also continue work on, and commission key sections of, the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, an infrastructure project that will transform mobility, logistics and economic growth across Ibadan and beyond. Indeed, the first segment of this road will be commissioned before the end of March 2026.”
On security, the governor revealed progress in acquiring a surveillance aircraft to boost monitoring across the state.
“In discussions with the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, we reviewed the progress of the surveillance aircraft procured to enhance security.”
“As we speak, the vessel has arrived in Lagos and will soon be delivered. This will significantly strengthen surveillance across border communities and deep within our state.”
He further announced plans to introduce modern electric buses later in the year to improve public transportation.
“Additionally, modern electric buses will be delivered later in the year as part of our commitment to expanding transport infrastructure and ensuring that public transportation remains efficient and affordable for our people,” he said.
Makinde stressed that governance should focus on building sustainable systems rather than short-term displays, adding that development must be people-centred.
He told award recipients and young people in attendance that service to the state would outlast political office.
“To the award recipients and to the younger generation watching, the lesson is simple: when you do good for Oyo State, you will be remembered. I have done my best for this state, and I am confident that future generations will remember that someone once stood here and chose to serve.”
He concluded by thanking past and present leaders and the people of Oyo State, whom he described as the enduring force behind the state’s progress.
“I say thank you to all who led before us, to those serving today, and to the people of Oyo State who remain the constant force in our shared journey. May Oyo State continue to rise. May our unity remain our strength. And may the next 50 years be even greater than the first,” Makinde said
