By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
AS part of activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State, the state government has announced plans to confer honours on a former military Head of State, late General Murtala Muhammed, Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, and other distinguished personalities.
Addressing a press conference in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Thursday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the golden jubilee celebration would hold on February 3, 2026.
Ondo State was created on February 3, 1976, following a nationwide state creation exercise announced by the military administration led by General Muhammed.
According to the governor, the late Head of State would be honoured in recognition of his pivotal role in the creation of Ondo State.
He added that other deserving sons and daughters of the state, both living and deceased, would also be recognised for their outstanding contributions to its growth and development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled that the creation of the state was the culmination of years of sustained agitation and advocacy by groups and individuals who believed that governance should be brought closer to the people.
He said the 50th anniversary would serve not only as a moment of reflection on the state’s journey so far, but also as an opportunity to chart a clear and purposeful course for its future.
“As we commemorate fifty years, our gaze is firmly fixed on the future,” the governor said. “The next half-century must be defined by growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation and strong democratic institutions.
“We are laying the groundwork today for a state that will not merely respond to change, but shape it: a state where opportunity is inclusive and prosperity is sustainable.”
The governor noted that Ondo State has recorded significant progress over the decades in key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure development and human capital growth.
He described the golden jubilee as a shared heritage belonging to all citizens of the state, including those in the diaspora.
Governor Aiyedatiwa urged residents and other stakeholders to support the anniversary activities, stressing that the celebration would be both commemorative and forward-looking.
He added that the milestone provides an opportunity to reassess the vision behind the creation of the state, evaluate its current condition and deliberately plan for sustainable development in the years ahead.
What's your reaction?
