Ondo at 50: Celebrating Progress, Pride and Promise
Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said the state has recorded notable progress across key sectors over the past 50 years since its creation, describing its journey as one marked by resilience, growth and determination.
Ondo State was created on Tuesday, February 3, 1976.
Speaking at a press conference in Akure to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the state, Aiyedatiwa noted that Ondo has successfully navigated the complexities of statehood, achieving measurable advancements in education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, industrialisation, road infrastructure, public sector reforms and human capital development.
According to the governor, the state’s tertiary institutions have produced professionals of national and international relevance, while its strong agrarian base has continued to sustain livelihoods and enhance food security. He added that urban centres have expanded steadily, with rural communities remaining vital contributors to economic productivity.
“These achievements were recorded despite economic downturns, population pressures, environmental challenges and evolving security concerns. Yet, the Ondo spirit—defined by industry, intellect and perseverance—has remained unbroken,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the state government has put together a comprehensive and inclusive programme to mark the Golden Jubilee, reflecting the intellectual, cultural and developmental identity of Ondo State. Activities lined up include statewide interfaith thanksgiving services, a Golden Jubilee Lecture Series themed ‘Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’, cultural and historical exhibitions, as well as a gala and awards night to celebrate excellence and service.
On governance, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-centred development anchored on fiscal discipline, institutional efficiency and social inclusion. He said the government is investing in critical infrastructure, urban renewal, healthcare revitalisation, education reforms and agricultural value chains, while also pursuing economic diversification through partnerships with the private sector and development institutions.
“Our goal is to translate policies into tangible outcomes that improve the quality of life of our people, in line with the ‘OUR EASE’ policy thrust,” he stated.
The governor emphasised that security remains central to development, noting that sustained collaboration with security agencies, community intelligence networks and strategic interventions has helped secure lives, farmlands and investments across the state.
Looking ahead, Aiyedatiwa said the next 50 years must be defined by knowledge-driven growth, industrial competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital innovation and strong democratic institutions.
“As we commemorate fifty years, our focus is firmly on the future. We are laying the foundation for a state that will not only respond to change, but shape it—where opportunity is inclusive and prosperity is sustainable,” he said.
The governor called on all stakeholders to partner with the government in making the Golden Jubilee a celebration of meaning, memory and momentum. He added that the late Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, who announced the creation of Ondo State on February 3, 1976, would be honoured during the anniversary.
Aiyedatiwa also expressed gratitude to the founding fathers of the state, both living and deceased, whose vision and sacrifices laid the foundation of Ondo State. He listed among them the first civilian governor, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin; the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi; Pa Reuben Fasoranti; and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa.
