Oyo State is set to roll out the drums in honour of its founding fathers, past leaders, and illustrious citizens as it marks its 50th anniversary in February 2026.
At a press conference held on Monday, November 3 at the Local Government Training School, Secretariat in Ibadan, the Chairman of the Oyo State@50 Celebrations Committee, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, said the golden jubilee would not only celebrate the state’s remarkable journey since its creation in 1976 but also pay tribute to those who shaped its destiny from inception.
In his words: “It gives me great pride and gratitude to stand before you today as we begin a historic journey, the Golden Jubilee Celebration of our beloved Oyo State, the Pacesetter State,” Akinade-Fijabi said.
He recalled that Governor Seyi Makinde inaugurated the committee on October 8, 2025, to plan what he called “a major milestone in the history of Oyo State.”
The celebration, he said, would honour both military, civilian leaders and all who have contributed to its growth from inception till date from Colonel David Jemibewon, the pioneer military governor in 1976, to the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde.
Among those to be recognized are Colonel Paul Tarfa, Chief Bola Ige, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, Chief Kolapo Ishola, Dr. Lam Adesina, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, and several others who left indelible marks on the political, economic, and social fabric of the state.
Fijabi emphasized that Oyo @ 50 would be more than just a ceremonial event. “It is a reflection of our identity, our strength, our coexistence, and our shared dreams.
“From the ancient city of Ibadan, renowned for its scholars and industry, to the vibrant communities across Oke-Ogun, Oyo, Ogbomoso, and Ibarapa, we are one people with a proud heritage and a limitless future,” he added.
The committee chairman revealed that activities marking the celebration would be spread across all six geopolitical zones of the state, involving people from all walks of life, the executive, legislature, and judiciary, as well as traditional and religious institutions, artisans, students, farmers, entrepreneurs, and persons living with disabilities.
“This milestone belongs not only to government but to all sons and daughters of Oyo State, at home and in the diaspora,” he added, calling on residents, institutions, and the private sector to take part in the celebration.
As part of efforts to make the event inclusive and engaging, the committee also announced the Oyo @ 50 Logo, Theme, and Mascot Challenge, inviting designers, artists, and creative minds from within and outside the state to submit entries that capture “our past achievements, our vibrant present, and our ambitious vision for the future.”
Submissions, according to him, can be sent via email to oyostate50@oyostate.gov.ng or through WhatsApp on 09163121000, with attractive rewards awaiting winners.
Looking back at Oyo’s journey, Fijabi said the 50th anniversary would tell “the story of how Oyo State became a cradle of learning, a hub of creativity, and a pillar of economic and cultural excellence.”
He added that the celebrations would also showcase the innovations and resilience of its people who continue to define its future.
“As we prepare for this landmark celebration,” he said, “let us renew our commitment to building an Oyo State that is greater, stronger, and more inclusive, a state that continues to lead in education, governance, enterprise, and innovation.”
The celebration is expected to feature lectures, exhibitions, awards, cultural festivals, and tributes to past leaders who have steered Oyo State through its various eras, from military rule to date.
“Together, let us celebrate 50 years of excellence and envision the next 50 years of glory. Long live Oyo State. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Fijabi concluded.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Seyi Makinde, Compol Fatai Owoseni (rtd.) has clarified that the present administration has duly compensated composers of Oyo state anthem.
He gave the clarification while fielding questions from journalists during the press conference adding that such compensations, even though commendable, should be a show of patriotism on the part of citizens to the state, cautioning against monetizing such contributions.