Ogun State marked a historic milestone on Monday, celebrating its 50th anniversary with an interfaith thanksgiving and prayer session at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The event, which brought together dignitaries from various walks of life, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, past military administrators, traditional rulers, and prominent sons and daughters of the state, was a fitting tribute to the state's remarkable journey.
In his address, Governor Dapo
Abiodun highlighted the state’s significant strides over the past five decades, pointing to major achievements in key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, housing, and more. He emphasized that Ogun had evolved into one of Nigeria's fastest-growing economies, now valued at an impressive ₦17 trillion.
Governor Abiodun further elaborated on the state's strategic positioning, noting that Ogun is now recognized as the second-largest economy in Nigeria, just behind Lagos. The governor attributed this success to the state's dynamic transportation infrastructure, the construction of a world-class airport, and an expansive road network that has cemented Ogun’s role as the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity.
Underlining the state's progress in education, Governor Abiodun stated that Ogun continues to lead in educational development at all levels. He also highlighted the administration's commitment to providing affordable housing, strengthening the healthcare system, and supporting agriculture to ensure that Ogun retains its place as Nigeria's industrial capital.
Reflecting on Ogun’s remarkable legacy, the governor paid homage to illustrious figures from the state, such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, and Chief MKO Abiola, whose contributions laid the foundation for Ogun’s development.
Their legacies remain a guiding light for the state’s continued progress.
In his remarks, former President Olusegun Obasanjo commended the state's past leaders for their visionary leadership, emphasizing Ogun's contributions to national development. He urged the current administration to continue leveraging the state's strategic proximity to Lagos, focusing on further developing infrastructure and attracting investments. Former Governor Osoba reflected on Ogun’s historical role in producing Nigeria’s first Chief Judge and praised the current administration for building upon the solid foundation laid by previous governments.
Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin (rtd.), representing former military administrators, expressed admiration for Ogun’s educated and enlightened populace, stressing the importance of strong leadership. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, urged the governor to stay focused on delivering the benefits of democracy to all parts of the state, noting the ongoing development projects, especially in Yewaland.
Pa Olu Okuboyejo, the Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council, reflected on the challenges faced during the state’s creation in 1976, offering gratitude for the progress achieved in the past five decades. In his sermon, Bishop Michael Fape praised the visionary leadership that has steered Ogun to its current heights, acknowledging the Abiodun administration’s efforts under the ISEYA development agenda. He also called for continued constructive engagement in public discourse as the state enters its next chapter of growth.
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