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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has described the state’s 50th anniversary as a reflection of decades of collective sacrifice, resilience and unity, noting that the golden jubilee goes beyond pageantry and celebration.
Makinde made this remark on Monday while delivering his address at the opening ceremony of the week-long Oyo @50 anniversary celebration held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Speaking on the personal meaning of the milestone, the governor recalled his childhood experiences and how the free education policy of the late former governor, Chief Bola Ige, shaped his life.
“Oyo State was created from the old Western State on February 3, 1976. Many people may not know that I am a beneficiary of the free education policy of late Uncle Bola Ige,” Makinde said.
“I attended Bishop Philips free of charge and was provided with everything: books, desks, chairs, pencils and rulers. This celebration, therefore, is more than a ceremonial event for me. It tells a story of commitment, resilience and unity.”
According to the governor, Oyo State has remained united despite challenges over the past five decades.
“For 50 years, we have remained one indivisible family, bonded together and moving forward in spite of our ups and downs. This is truly worth celebrating,” he added.
Makinde commended the Oyo @50 Anniversary Committee, chaired by Hon. Saheed Fijabi, for what he described as a colourful and well-structured programme of events, and urged residents of the state to actively participate in the celebrations.
Earlier, Fijabi outlined activities scheduled for the anniversary week, beginning with a carnival and local government parade on Wednesday, January 28.
“The carnival will start from the historic Mapo Hall to the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, with participants dressed in Oyo @50 ankara,” he said, adding that a march-past would also take place at the stadium, where the governor is expected to address participants.
Fijabi further disclosed that the celebration would feature an Oyo @50 symposium on Thursday at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, with Prof. Olu Ajakaiye as the lead discussant, alongside an exhibition of arts and artefacts and a fashion runway.
Other highlights, he said, include a golf tee-off on Friday, a concert and youth gathering on Saturday, and the distribution of educational materials on Monday.
“The closing ceremony will be held on Tuesday, February 3, with activities such as a cocktail reception, an airshow and an award dinner. Former governors of the state will be honoured, while deserving indigenes and residents will receive merit awards and be inducted into the Oyo State Hall of Fame,” Fijabi added.
The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal, and his wife, Ajibola; members of the Oyo State House of Assembly; and traditional rulers, among them the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja (Arusa I), and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
