Ondo at 50: Tinubu seeks unity, resource mobilisation for next 50 years

Ondo State marked its Golden Jubilee in grand style on Tuesday with a colourful cultural carnival, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged the people to deepen unity, strengthen democracy and fully harness the state’s abundant human and natural resources for sustainable development over the next 50 years.

The celebration, held at the Akure Township Stadium, formed part of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State and drew dignitaries from across the country.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, described the milestone as both a moment of pride and a call to responsibility, stressing the need for purposeful planning and collective commitment towards the state’s future.

He commended the people of Ondo State for their discipline and active participation during the last general election, noting that their conduct helped strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process and renewed confidence in accountable leadership.

According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to fairness, equity and inclusion in governance, irrespective of religion, political affiliation or social background, adding that every citizen matters in national development.

The President stated that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government would continue to support Ondo State in infrastructure development, security enhancement and community empowerment to promote inclusive growth.

Speaking at the event, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the Golden Jubilee as a defining moment for renewed commitment to unity, people-centred governance and responsible leadership.

He said the celebration was not a routine anniversary but a solemn reflection on five decades of aspiration, resilience, struggle and progress, formally proclaiming the Golden Jubilee of the Sunshine State with gratitude to God and pride in the shared heritage of its people.

The Governor recalled that Ondo State was created on Tuesday, February 3, 1976, as the fulfilment of a long-standing desire for self-governance, dignity and collective destiny, stressing that the state’s creation was a deliberate expression of the will of its people.

He highlighted the state’s rich endowments in agriculture, solid minerals and human capital, noting Ondo State’s prominence in cocoa production, crude oil, bitumen and its strong tradition of learning, excellence and enterprise.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the jubilee provided an opportunity to honour generations of Ondo indigenes who have contributed to the development of the state and Nigeria, including traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals, farmers, artisans, workers and students.

Looking ahead, he said the milestone called for honest reflection on the direction of the state, emphasising that his administration is guided by the belief that governance must improve lives, expand opportunities and restore confidence in public institutions.

He outlined key priorities of his administration to include security of lives and property, economic diversification, infrastructural renewal, human capital development through education and healthcare, as well as transparent and accountable governance.

Describing youths as central to the next chapter of the state’s history, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to creating an enabling environment for workers, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals and investors.

In his goodwill message, former Governor Olusegun Mimiko described the jubilee year as symbolic, urging citizens to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation as pathways to collective progress and renewal.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, recalled the shared historical journey of Ondo and Ekiti states, noting that both were created together 50 years ago before parting ways 29 years later. He praised Ondo State’s steady progress and commended the incumbent administration for its developmental efforts.

In the jubilee declaration, the State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa, said the celebration was a call to sober reflection, responsibility and renewed dedication to the principles that have guided the state since its creation.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Anniversary Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Fasoranti, expressed appreciation to guests and stakeholders for honouring the historic occasion.

The event attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, including the First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; traditional rulers, members of the National Assembly, state officials, security chiefs, political leaders and other stakeholders.