President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Ondo State for its consistent progress over the last half-century. He sees the state as a good model for steady growth and strong leadership in the country.
At a colourful event in Akure, the state capital, commemorating Ondo State’s 50th anniversary on Tuesday, President Tinubu stated that Ondo has shown a real commitment to strengthening democracy and making progress, especially in things like education, infrastructure, and developing people’s skills. He added that the state’s progress is something the entire country can be proud of.
The President’s representative, Minister of Interior Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, spoke at the event. Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and former Ondo State Governor Dr Olusegun Mimiko also spoke, praising the people of Ondo State for their strength, unity, and dedication. They noted that the state has made real gains in various areas since it was created in 1976.
The President said, As we celebrate Ondo State’s 50th anniversary, I want to say that I think very highly of the people of Ondo State. I recognise their strength, their work ethic, and their sense of civic duty.
During the last national election, the people of Ondo State showed great participation, discipline, and commitment to democratic ideals. Your involvement makes our nation’s democracy stronger and reinforces our faith in good leadership. I truly appreciate your support, and I assure all citizens of Ondo State that my administration is committed to serving all Nigerians fairly.
Governor Oyebanji also spoke, congratulating the government and people of Ondo State for staying true to the vision of their founding leaders. He recognised the state’s consistent efforts to deliver real progress, pointing out that Ondo has continued to play a key role in the South-West region and Nigeria’s economic and social advancement.
The Governor stated that Ondo State’s progress should motivate other states to stay committed to policies and programs that improve the well-being of their people.
I bring greetings from your brothers and sisters in Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji said. We started this together 50 years ago, but we went our separate ways 29 years ago. We are so thankful to God that Ondo is continuing to improve, and good things are taking place in Ondo State. We are very proud of the progress Ondo State has made.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa responded by thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other honoured guests for celebrating the state’s golden jubilee with them. He said that the 50th anniversary is a major milestone that reflects the sacrifices, vision, and combined efforts of the founding leaders and the administrations that followed, all of whom have helped the state grow and change.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also thanked the people of Ondo State for their lasting unity, strength, and support for government initiatives over the years. He urged them to continue working together in peace and harmony, promising that his administration will remain focused on building a more successful, inclusive, and sustainable future for the state.
He pointed out that Ondo State has made noteworthy progress in important areas like education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and industrial growth. The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting policies and programs that will keep improving the standard of living for residents, bring in investments, and create chances for economic success all over the state.
Ondo State, along with Ogun and Oyo States, was created from the old Western Region when Nigeria adopted the 19-state structure in 1976. Ekiti State was later carved out of the old Ondo State on October 1, 1996.
