………As Gov Aiyedatiwa urges Ondo people to unite for greater future
By Precious Oluwole
The President of the federal republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has commended Ondo State for its enduring contributions to Nigeria’s growth and stability, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the state’s development aspirations.
The President gave the assurance in his goodwill message at the grand celebration of Ondo State’s 50th anniversary.
Represented by the Minster of Interior , Hon. Olubunmi Tunji -Ojo, Tinubu praised the resilience, industriousness and civic responsibility of the people of Ondo State, noting their commendable participation and discipline during recent national elections.
According to him, the conduct of the citizens strengthened Nigeria’s democracy and reaffirmed their belief in accountable leadership.
He stressed that his administration remains committed to serving all Nigerians fairly, equitably and inclusively, irrespective of religion, political affiliation or social background.
The President also paid tribute to traditional rulers, religious leaders, elders, civil servants, farmers, artisans, market women and other stakeholders whose sacrifices and dedication, he said, formed the backbone of the state’s progress over the past five decades.
He described Ondo State as a place that has distinguished itself in education, public service, culture and economic contribution since its creation in 1976.
Reflecting on the journey so far, Tinubu said the Golden Jubilee was not only a celebration of past achievements but also an opportunity to chart a bold vision for the future. He highlighted the state’s vast potential in agriculture, education, technology and the blue economy, citing its fertile land, long coastline, mineral resources and vibrant youth population as key assets for sustainable growth.
He assured the people that the Federal Government, under its Renewed Hope Agenda, would continue to partner with Ondo State in improving infrastructure, strengthening security and empowering communities to ensure inclusive development.
Addressing the youth, the President described them as the architects of the next 50 years, urging them to embrace innovation, discipline and service in driving the state to greater heights.
Tinubu further emphasized the importance of unity, peace and tolerance, describing Ondo State’s diversity as a source of strength rather than division.
Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa described the anniversary as more than a celebration, adding that the milestone offers an opportunity for reflection, remembrance and renewed commitment to the shared destiny of the people of Ondo State.
on residents of the state to embrace unity and collective responsibility as the foundation for a greater and more prosperous future. The governor made the call on Tuesday during the grand anniversary celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Ondo State held at the Ondo State Sports Complex.
He noted that the state’s journey since its creation on February 3, 1976, has been shaped by sacrifice, resilience and a strong sense of common identity that must be preserved and strengthened.
The governor paid tribute to the founding fathers and mothers, traditional rulers, past leaders and citizens whose contributions laid the foundation of the state, stressing that their sacrifices underscore the importance of unity across generations.
According to him, Ondo State’s progress over the past five decades was achieved through collective effort and can only be sustained through cooperation, mutual respect and a shared vision for development.
He called on residents to work together to make the state a model of national progress, innovation and shared prosperity, urging them to look beyond differences and work together to build the Ondo State of their dreams, assuring them that his administration remains committed to inclusive, people-centred governance.
He said unity is essential to achieving key development goals in security, economic growth, infrastructure renewal, education and healthcare.
Addressing youths, elders, workers, entrepreneurs, farmers and investors, the governor stressed that everyone has a role to play in shaping the state’s future.
He described young people as critical partners in progress and acknowledged the guidance of elders as vital to maintaining stability and continuity.
The governor expressed confidence that with unity of purpose and commitment to service, Ondo State would emerge stronger in the years ahead, standing as a beacon of stability and progress within the Nigerian federation.
He urged residents to celebrate the Golden Jubilee with gratitude and move forward with renewed resolve, united in purpose and confident in the state’s destiny.
In his goodwill message, the former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, described the jubilee year as symbolic, urging citizens to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation as pathways to personal and collective upliftment.
He said the 50th anniversary represented a year of restoration, new beginnings and peace, stressing that forgiveness of past wrongs was essential for divine lifting and progress.
Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, recalled the shared historical journey of Ondo and Ekiti states, noting that both started together 50 years ago before parting ways 29 years later.
He thanked God for the steady progress of Ondo State, describing it as “going up and up and up,” with positive developments visible across sectors.
Oyebanji commended the developmental strides of the state, acknowledged the contributions of past governors and praised the incumbent governor for what he described as a “very great job,” while praying that the next 50 years would usher in glory for the state.
In the declaration of the golden jubilee, the State Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa, said the celebration is not merely an occasion for festivity but a call for honest remembrance, sober evaluation and responsibility.
He emphasised the need for renewed dedication to the principles that have guided the state since its inception, ensuring that the Sunshine State continues to shine in purpose, character and legacy.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Anniversary Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, thanked guests for honouring the historic occasion.
The event was well attended by dignitaries, including the Ondo State First Lady, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, and his wife, Mrs Abosede Adelami; Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Hon Ayodele Olawande Wisdom; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly; local government chairmen; APC chieftains; elder statesmen; political appointees; traditional rulers; heads of security agencies, among others.
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