Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the state’s 50th anniversary as a defining moment of reflection and renewal, positioning the Golden Jubilee at the crossroads of history and destiny.
In his Golden Jubilee statewide broadcast, the governor expressed gratitude to God and celebrated five decades of resilience, sacrifice and hope, noting that the anniversary offers an opportunity to honour the past while deliberately shaping the future.
Tracing the historical roots of Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled its evolution from the Ondo Province, through Nigeria’s post-independence challenges, to the creation of the state on February 3, 1976, under the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed. He described statehood as a restoration of the people’s identity, dignity and right to people-centred governance.
The governor paid glowing tribute to the patriots, political movements, traditional rulers, public servants and ordinary citizens whose sacrifices laid the foundation of the state.
He highlighted Ondo State’s historic economic contributions to the old Western Region, particularly in agriculture, which he said sustained development efforts in the early years.
Reflecting on governance over the past five decades, Aiyedatiwa recalled the humble beginnings of state administration, the gradual evolution of public service institutions, and the stabilising role played by early administrators during challenging times.
Reviewing the period of military and democratic rule, the governor noted significant progress in education, healthcare, infrastructure development, agriculture and economic diversification.
He also referenced the creation of Ekiti State in 1996 as a major milestone in the state’s political history.
Governor Aiyedatiwa celebrated Ondo State’s rich human capital, commending the achievements of its sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally in various fields.
He acknowledged the contributions of all past governors and leaders, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, infrastructure renewal, agricultural development, quality healthcare, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable economic growth.
As Ondo State looks ahead to the next fifty years, the governor called on residents to embrace unity, civic responsibility and collective effort, urging all stakeholders to work together to build a functional, inclusive and globally competitive Sunshine State.
“The journey ahead demands our shared commitment and belief in Ondo State’s limitless potential,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations mark a historic milestone in the life of Ondo State, founded on resilience and now focused on a future of inclusive development and prosperity.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
