The Ondo State Government has announced a rich programme of events to mark the 50th anniversary of the state’s creation, with activities designed to reflect on the past, celebrate progress and chart a path for the future.
Ondo State, created on February 3, 1976 from the former Western Region, will commemorate its golden jubilee with a blend of religious observances, intellectual engagements and cultural festivities. The state capital is Akure.
According to a statement shared on the state government’s official X handle on Monday, the anniversary programme aligns with the vision of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and aims to combine thanksgiving, reflection, policy dialogue and cultural expression.
The celebrations are being coordinated by a planning committee chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti. A major highlight will be a public lecture titled “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026 at The Dome in Akure.
The lecture will be delivered by the Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Prof Taiwo Oyedele. It will be chaired by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), with Mrs Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, also expected to speak.
Activities will officially commence with a World Press Conference on January 29, followed by a Jumat service on January 30 and a Thanksgiving service on February 1.
On the anniversary day, February 3, 2026, Governor Aiyedatiwa will address the people in a state-wide broadcast. This will be followed by a colourful state carnival featuring cultural displays and performances at the Ondo State Sports Stadium.
The golden jubilee celebrations will climax with a gala and awards night at The Dome, Akure, where distinguished sons and daughters of Ondo State will be honoured for their contributions to the state’s development.
The state government has called on residents, indigenes at home and in the diaspora, as well as friends of Ondo State, to join in celebrating the milestone.
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