Ondo government declares two-day public holiday for 50th anniversary celebrations

The Ondo State Government has declared Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as public holidays to allow residents participate fully in activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state.

The approval was granted by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as part of arrangements to commemorate the golden jubilee of Ondo State, a landmark event celebrating five decades of growth, resilience and shared progress since its creation in 1976.

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the public holidays are intended to enable citizens across the 18 local government areas to take part in the series of official programmes and community-based activities lined up for the anniversary celebration.

The governor urged residents to use the opportunity provided by the holidays to reflect on the developmental journey of the state, appreciate the sacrifices of past leaders and citizens, and renew their commitment to the collective aspiration of building a more prosperous, peaceful and united Ondo State.

He emphasised that the anniversary provides a moment for sober reflection and renewed dedication to good governance, social harmony and sustainable development, noting that the progress of the state depends on the active participation of its people.

The government, however, advised providers of essential services, including health, security and utilities, to make adequate arrangements to ensure that critical services remain uninterrupted during the holiday period.

Ondo State was created on February 3, 1976, from the former Western State, and the golden jubilee celebration is expected to attract dignitaries, stakeholders and residents from within and outside the state.