Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Monday unveiled the official Oyo @50 logo and formally commenced the 50-day countdown to the golden jubilee marking the creation of the Pacesetter State. The governor described the anniversary as a moment to reflect on five decades of progress, growth and development despite prevailing economic challenges in the country.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, attracted prominent traditional rulers, political leaders and eminent citizens of the state. Among those in attendance were a former governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; a former deputy governor, Hamid Gbadamosi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; and a representative of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, alongside other royal fathers and stakeholders.
At the event, the winner of the Oyo @50 logo design competition, Olaleye Sunday, was presented with a cash prize of N1.5 million in recognition of his creative contribution to the anniversary celebrations.
Governor Makinde recalled that the state government had earlier inaugurated an 11-member Oyo @50 Anniversary Committee on October 6, 2025, chaired by former House of Representatives member, Saheed Fijabi. He also noted that entries for the anniversary logo were opened to the public on November 3, 2025, as part of efforts to ensure broad participation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Makinde said Oyo State had many reasons to celebrate its 50th anniversary, having produced men and women of excellence who have contributed significantly to national development. He expressed gratitude to individuals and institutions that have played key roles in the state’s progress over the past five decades.
Highlighting achievements under his administration, the governor said his government prioritised continuity in governance, completing abandoned projects initiated by previous administrations where they aligned with the state’s development agenda. He cited projects such as the Saki Township Road, the Akobo Bridge and the resolution of the ownership crisis at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).
Makinde also announced that the first 32-kilometre segment of the Ibadan Circular Road, named after Oba Rashidi Ladoja, would be commissioned as part of the Oyo @50 celebrations.
“Some may ask what there is to celebrate given the hardship in the country, but even in challenging times, Oyo State has continued to record progress. Let us celebrate these milestones and look forward to another 50 years of growth,” he said.
The governor added that the state banquet for the anniversary would be held at the new Banquet Hall currently under construction at the Government House, marking a shift from the use of external venues in previous years.
Earlier, the chairman of the Oyo @50 Anniversary Committee, Saheed Fijabi, described the jubilee as a celebration of identity, resilience and shared aspirations. He assured residents that activities would cut across all geopolitical zones and feature cultural displays, intellectual engagements, community programmes and youth-focused initiatives.
The event was also attended by the wife of the governor, Tamunominini Makinde; Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; lawmakers, judges, former ministers and other dignitaries, all of whom pledged support for a memorable and inclusive golden jubilee celebration.
