Oyo @50: Makinde Unveils Jubilee Logo, Promises Inclusive, Future-Focused Celebration

Governor Seyi Makinde has reflected on his childhood memories as Oyo State prepares to mark 50 years of its creation, recalling that he was just eight years old when the state was carved out in 1976.

Speaking on Monday at the unveiling ceremony held at the Governor’s Office Car Park, Secretariat, Ibadan, Makinde recalled that he was only eight years old when Oyo State was created, describing the approaching Golden Jubilee as a deeply personal and historic milestone.

“I was just eight years old when Oyo State was created. Today, standing here as governor, unveiling the logo for our 50th anniversary, is a reminder that this celebration is not just about government, but about generations of people who have grown with this state,” he said.

The governor described the moment as symbolic, noting that the Golden Jubilee represents a shared history and collective legacy built on resilience and progress.

“Today is not just another day on the calendar. It is a symbolic milestone. In 50 days, Oyo State will mark 50 years of existence, 50 years of resilience, heritage, progress and promise,” Makinde said.

He assured residents that the Golden Jubilee celebrations would be inclusive and forward-looking, stressing that the programme had been deliberately designed to reflect the diversity and aspirations of the people.

“This Golden Jubilee will be a celebration that belongs to everyone. It will be inclusive, reflective and forward-looking, with activities that bring our people together and remind us of who we are and where we are going,” he said.

Makinde said the celebrations would feature cultural exhibitions, intellectual engagements, community-based activities and youth-focused programmes, all aimed at strengthening unity and a shared sense of purpose across the state.

Describing Oyo State as a pillar of excellence within the Nigerian federation, the governor highlighted its historic contributions to education, governance, commerce and national development.

“Oyo State has always been a pace-setter. From education to governance and enterprise, our state has consistently contributed to Nigeria’s growth. That legacy of excellence is something we must protect and build upon,” he said.

Responding to criticisms surrounding some infrastructure projects embarked upon by his administration, including the Ibadan Circular Road named after the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Makinde said leadership often demands difficult choices that may not attract immediate public approval.

“Leadership is not always about doing what is popular. Sometimes, it is about doing what is necessary. I am ready to take the bullets today so that those coming after us will inherit a stronger, better-structured and more sustainable Oyo State, the governor said.

Earlier in his remark, Chairman of the Golden Jubilee planning committee, Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, commended the governor for assembling a diverse and inclusive team to drive the celebrations.

He disclosed that research conducted by the committee showed that about 80 per cent of residents were eagerly anticipating the Golden Jubilee.

Goodwill messages were delivered by prominent Nigerians, including former Minister of Industry, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande, and Chief Bayo Oyero, who praised the Makinde administration for what they described as the steady transformation and modernisation of Oyo State.

Traditional rulers in attendance included representatives of the Alaafin of Oyo; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Laoye; the Okere of Saki; the Onpetu of Ijeru, among others.

Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, and has since been administered by 18 leaders, comprising six military governors, four sole administrators and eight elected governors, including the incumbent.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the official Oyo @50 logo, which Makinde said emerged from an open and competitive process that encouraged public participation.

The winning design was created by Mr Ajayi Olaleye, who received a cash prize of N1.5 million.