Oyo State @50 Celebration Commences

The Oyo State of Nigeria, under the governorship of Engineer Seyi Makinde, commenced a week-long celebration of the 50^th anniversary of creation Government on Monday commenced week-long activities to mark the 50^th anniversary of the state’s creation with an opening ceremony on Monday, 26 January 2026, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

The week-long celebration, which began on January 26, will culminate on February 3 with a gala night and dinner at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Agodi, where all 17 former governors of the state will be honoured.

The Chairman of the Oyo @50 Anniversary Committee and former member of the House of Representatives, Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, had earlier disclosed that the programme was structured to combine thanksgiving, reflection, intellectual engagement and cultural celebration.

Other scheduled activities include health outreaches across all 33 local government areas, film shows in the six geopolitical zones, a carnival, symposiums, religious services, sports competitions, and women empowerment programmes.

Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, by the military government of the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed, with Brig. David Jemibewon serving as the first military governor.

Families of deceased former governors are expected to receive honours on behalf of their late relatives, while notable indigenes who have contributed to the state’s development will also be recognized during the celebration.

Among the dignitaries graced the ceremony was the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who reflected in his remarks on the political leaders, technocrats, and unsung heroes who contributed to the growth of Oyo State. He stressed the importance of institutional memory and continuity in building a prosperous future.

The event was attended by family members of former governors, traditional and religious leaders, top government officials, and political stakeholders. Activities at the ceremony included a poetic performance by students of Baptist Secondary School, Ago-Are, the screening of a documentary on the state’s history, cutting of the anniversary cake, and traditional drum displays.

However, the absence of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, at the ceremony attracted public attention. The seat reserved for the monarch remained vacant throughout the event, reinforcing public perceptions of tension between the Alaafin and the Olubadan.