President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, elder statesman Reuben Fasoranti, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, along with 67 other sons, daughters and friends of the state have been honoured in Ondo State during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the state.

Aiyedatiwa described the celebration as a fitting legacy, excellence and the recognition of service, reflecting the collective efforts, shared sacrifice and enduring aspirations of the state over five decades.
The governor stressed that 50 years of statehood required maturity in engaging history, noting that societies advance only when excellence is celebrated and institutions endure when character is honoured.

Lifetime achievement awards were also presented to the former governor of the state, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, and Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, among others.

Aiyedatiwa reiterated that the anniversary was not about romanticising the past but drawing strength from history to meet future challenges.

In his welcome address, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Chairman of the Golden Jubilee Committee, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, reflected on Ondo State’s remarkable transformation, noting that many who grew up in local communities would barely recognise familiar landmarks.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Adewusi, who shared the occasion, commended Aiyedatiwa and his wife, Oluwaseun, describing the First Lady as a source of pride to Osun State.

RELATEDLY, the Golden Jubilee celebration of Oyo State reached a historic climax as distinguished sons and daughters of the state, including former Minister of Industry, Onikepo Akande, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, were honoured.

A total of 74 individuals were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the state’s development.

Muyiwa Ige received the award on behalf of the family of the late Bola Ige.

Governor Seyi Makinde said: “I attended secondary school under Bola Ige’s administration from 1980 to 1985. That period laid the foundation for who I later became.”

“That is the essence of Oyo State and the beauty of what we celebrate today. I am a product of free education in this state.”