ONDO AT 50: COLOURFUL CARNIVAL, CULTURAL DISPLAY MARK GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION

ONDO AT 50: COLOURFUL CARNIVAL, CULTURAL DISPLAY MARK GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION



President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the people of Ondo State to strengthen unity, deepen democratic values and effectively harness the state’s vast human and natural resources to ensure sustainable development over the next 50 years.

The President made the call on Tuesday during the grand ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State, held at the Akure Township Stadium in the state capital.

Represented by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, President Tinubu described the golden jubilee as both a moment of pride and a call to action, urging the state to pursue a more purposeful and inclusive development agenda in the decades ahead.

He commended the people of Ondo State for their conduct during the last general election, noting that their peaceful participation, discipline and commitment to democratic ideals contributed significantly to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

According to the President, the Federal Government values Ondo State and its people, assuring that the administration remains committed to fairness, equity and inclusiveness in governance, irrespective of religion, political affiliation or social background.

He said the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government prioritises infrastructure development, improved security and community empowerment, adding that Ondo State will continue to receive federal support in harnessing its economic opportunities for the benefit of its people.

In his address, Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, described the golden jubilee as more than a ceremonial celebration, calling it a defining moment for reflection, renewal and recommitment to people-centred governance.

He formally proclaimed the Golden Jubilee of the Sunshine State, expressing gratitude to God and pride in the collective heritage of the people. The governor recalled that Ondo State was created on February 3, 1976, following a long struggle for self-governance, dignity and identity.

Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the creation of the state was a deliberate expression of the collective will of its people, not a mere administrative arrangement, and that the founding vision has endured over five decades of resilience and progress.

Highlighting the state’s rich endowments, the governor pointed to agriculture, solid minerals and human capital as key pillars of Ondo State’s development, noting its prominence in cocoa production, crude oil, bitumen resources and a strong tradition of academic excellence and enterprise.

He paid tribute to generations of Ondo indigenes who have contributed to the growth of the state and the nation, including traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals, farmers, artisans, public servants and youths.

Looking ahead, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the next 50 years demand bold thinking, innovation, accountability and compassion. He outlined his administration’s priorities to include security of lives and property, economic diversification, infrastructure renewal, quality education, improved healthcare delivery and transparent governance.

He emphasised that young people must be active drivers of the state’s future, while reaffirming his commitment to creating an enabling environment for workers, entrepreneurs, investors and professionals.

In a goodwill message, former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, described the jubilee as symbolic, urging citizens to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and unity as foundations for collective progress.




Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, recalled the shared historical roots of Ondo and Ekiti states, noting that both states began their journey together 50 years ago. He commended Ondo State’s steady development and praised the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa, expressing optimism about the state’s future.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Ondo State, Rev. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa, said the golden jubilee should inspire sober reflection, accountability and renewed dedication to the ideals that shaped the state at its creation.

The event featured colourful cultural displays, a carnival procession and was attended by dignitaries from across the country, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; traditional rulers; federal and state lawmakers; members of the state executive council; security chiefs; political leaders and other stakeholders.

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