Governor Dapo Abiodun stood before a cross-section of Ogun’s finest at the Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, as the state marked its 50th anniversary with an interfaith thanksgiving and prayer session—an event that blended gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to progress.
The ceremony drew an array of distinguished leaders and elder statesmen, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, past military administrators, revered traditional rulers, and eminent sons and daughters of Ogun State.
According to Governor Abiodun, the golden jubilee was not only a moment to celebrate but also to acknowledge divine
grace and collective effort that have shaped the state’s trajectory over five decades.
“This thanksgiving is a moment of deep gratitude to God for how far we have come as a people and as a state. It is also a reminder that our journey of progress must continue with even greater determination,” the governor said.
Reflecting on Ogun’s development strides since its creation, Abiodun highlighted significant progress across education, housing, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure—sectors he described as pillars of the state’s transformation.
Today, Ogun is widely recognised as Nigeria’s industrial capital and one of the country’s fastest-growing economies, valued at about ₦17 trillion.
The governor noted that strategic investments in multimodal transportation, the state’s airport, and an expanding road
network have strengthened Ogun’s position as a gateway to national prosperity while improving quality of life for residents.“Our investments in infrastructure and connectivity are deliberate. We are positioning Ogun not just as a place of industry, but as a place of opportunity and improved living for our people,” Abiodun added.
The governor also paid glowing tribute to past leaders and unsung heroes whose sacrifices laid the foundation for the state’s achievements. He acknowledged the encouragement and counsel from elder statesmen, monarchs, and
stakeholders present at the event, describing their presence as a source of inspiration.
“The words of our leaders and traditional rulers today strengthen our resolve to ensure that development touches every corner of Ogun State,” he noted.
As Ogun steps into its next half-century, Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening
development across all regions and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt in every community.
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