Ogun State has marked 50 years since its creation with renewed calls for unity, increased investment and sustained development, as political leaders, traditional rulers and religious figures gathered in Abeokuta to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the state.
The milestone was observed with an interfaith thanksgiving and prayer service held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The event brought together a wide array of dignitaries and citizens, reflecting the spirit of unity that has shaped the state since its creation in 1976.
Among those in attendance were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, past military administrators, royal fathers and other eminent sons and daughters of Ogun State.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Dapo Abiodun reflected on the state’s transformation over the past five decades, highlighting progress in education, healthcare, housing, agriculture, infrastructure and industrial development.
“Ogun has attained an unprecedented level of prominence and excellence,” Abiodun said. “Our strategic location, industrial depth, and infrastructure investments have positioned us as the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity.”
The governor noted that Ogun now boasts an estimated ₦17 trillion economy, ranking it among the fastest-growing states in the country and placing it second only to Lagos. He added that the state’s proximity to Lagos has enabled it to emerge as a major industrial hub, hosting manufacturing plants, agro-processing centres and logistics facilities.
Former President Obasanjo praised the foresight of past leaders and the resilience of the people, urging the present administration to further harness Ogun’s location by deepening infrastructure development and attracting more domestic and foreign investment.
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Former Governor Osoba recalled Ogun’s early contributions to Nigeria’s judicial and administrative history and commended successive governments for building on foundations laid decades ago.
Speaking for former military administrators, Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin (rtd.) described Ogun as a state blessed with an enlightened population and leadership committed to inclusive development.
Traditional rulers also spoke at the event. The Olu of Ilaro and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, acknowledged the spread of development projects across the state and urged sustained focus on people-centred governance.
Reflecting on the state’s journey, Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council, Pa Olu Okuboyejo, described Ogun’s growth as one marked by perseverance and divine grace. In a sermon titled “Ogun State, Be Grateful to God for Your Inheritance,” Bishop Michael Fape said the state’s consistent rise was rooted in visionary leadership and responsible governance.
As the Golden Jubilee celebrations continue, stakeholders agreed that Ogun’s next phase of growth must be anchored on unity, investment and innovation to strengthen its role as a key contributor to Nigeria’s economy and a model for subnational development.