The Oyo State Government on Monday commenced week-long activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the state’s creation with an opening ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to deliver a public lecture at the event, which marks the beginning of celebrations themed “Consolidating the Legacy, Navigating the Present, and Reimagining the Future.”
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 recognised during the celebration.
