Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that the state’s 50th anniversary is not a celebration of any individual, political party, or administration, but a tribute to the enduring legacy of Oyo and the collective efforts of generations since its creation in 1976.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 10-day Oyo at 50 celebrations, Makinde said the milestone represents a turning point and the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s development.
“As we draw the curtain on this phase of activities marking 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,” he said.
The governor acknowledged party leaders, fellow governors, dignitaries, and guests, thanking them for participating in what he described as a historic moment in the state’s life.
Makinde emphasized that the anniversary celebrates continuity and shared responsibility, not partisan or personal achievements. “What we are celebrating tonight is not the achievement of one government. It is not the achievement of one political party, nor 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 Oyo State could always be better than it was yesterday,” he said.
Tracing the state’s progress to its creation in 1976, Makinde paid tribute to early military administrators, including General David Jemibewon, and successive civilian and military governments, noting that each contributed to building institutions, advancing public service, education, and social development.
“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,” he reflected.
Makinde highlighted that since the return to democratic rule in 1999, successive administrations have focused on strengthening governance, rebuilding institutions, and responding to the needs of the people. He said infrastructure renewal, urban development, security reforms, and economic restructuring have been key priorities.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the state over the decades, the governor said, “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.”
The governor outlined his administration’s ongoing projects, including system-driven infrastructure, transport reforms, and economic initiatives to be delivered throughout the anniversary year. He announced that the upgraded international airport will be formally commissioned in the coming months, providing Oyo State with a key gateway to the world.
Key sections of the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road are also expected to be completed, with the first phase set for commissioning before the end of March 2026. On security, Makinde revealed progress on the acquisition of a surveillance aircraft to enhance state monitoring, while modern electric buses will be deployed later this year to improve public transport.
“Governance must be anchored on sustainable systems rather than short-term display. We have many projects in the pipeline because development is not a spectacle; it is a system. And systems endure when they are designed for the people, not for optics or politics,” he said.
Addressing award recipients and youth, Makinde added, “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 the state, whom he described as the constant force in Oyo’s history: “May Oyo State continue to rise. May our unity remain our strength. And may the next 50 years be even greater than the first.”
Elijah Adeyemi
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