Abiodun reflects on Ogun’s legacy, economic gains at 50th anniversary celebration

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the state’s 50th anniversary as a moment for deep reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to sustained development.

In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday to mark the golden jubilee, Abiodun said the milestone symbolised five decades of purposeful progress built on the vision, sacrifices and collective resolve of the people of the Gateway State.

He recalled that Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, from the old Western Region, noting that the decision birthed a state founded on clarity of purpose and a strong sense of destiny. The anniversary, he said, offered an opportunity to celebrate past achievements while preparing for a more prosperous future.

The governor expressed gratitude to God and paid tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for leading the country at a historic time when several states, including Ogun, are marking 50 years of creation. He prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the President in implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Abiodun also acknowledged the contributions of past leaders to the state’s growth and stability, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, and other civilian and military administrators who steered the state through different phases of its history.

He noted that Ogun has earned a reputation as a fountain of excellence, having produced distinguished figures such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola and Tai Solarin, among others.

The governor further praised the contributions of women from the state, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, describing them as trailblazers who inspired generations.

According to him, political stability, religious tolerance and inclusive governance have remained defining strengths of Ogun State, fostering a peaceful environment conducive to growth and investment.

He said education has always been central to the state’s identity, adding that Ogun has evolved into Nigeria’s education capital, hosting numerous federal, state and private tertiary institutions. He also highlighted the state’s strategic location and expanding industrial base as key drivers of economic growth.

Abiodun disclosed that his administration had prioritised infrastructure development, with over 1,600 kilometres of roads constructed or rehabilitated. He added that the Gateway International Airport has been completed and certified, while projects such as the Kajola and Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Ports, as well as plans for the Olokola Deep Sea Port, are expected to further boost the state’s economy.

He revealed that Ogun State’s economy is now estimated at about N17 trillion, with internally generated revenue rising from about N52 billion in 2020 to approximately N250 billion by the end of 2025. Progress, he said, has also been recorded in healthcare, housing, agriculture, power, security and social empowerment.

While reflecting on the achievements of the past five decades, the governor urged residents to remain united and committed to the state’s continued progress. He called on the youth to uphold the legacy of hard work and responsibility, while appreciating elders and pioneers for laying a solid foundation.

Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive, transparent and people-centred governance, describing the golden jubilee as both a celebration and a call to renewal for all citizens of Ogun State.