Oyo LG Chairmen Hail State’s Progress at 50, Commend Makinde’s Leadership

The Forum of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State has joined the chorus of celebration marking the state’s Golden Jubilee, describing the fifty-year journey since the state's creation as a testament to resilience, unity, and sustained development. In a joint statement issued by the Chairman of the forum, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, and the Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo, the council bosses felicitated with the government and the entire citizenry on this historic milestone. They noted that the anniversary provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the collective achievements of the past five decades while charting a course for a more prosperous future.

The chairmen expressed their delight at witnessing the Golden Jubilee, emphasizing that Oyo State has recorded remarkable progress since its establishment on February 3, 1976. They highlighted the state's evolution from its early days to its current status as a beacon of development in the South-West region. The forum particularly praised the successful opening ceremony of the celebrations held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, describing it as a colourful and well-organized event that truly befits the "Pacesetter" status of the state.

A significant portion of the statement was dedicated to commending Governor Seyi Makinde for his role in orchestrating a celebration that is both grandiose and inclusive. The council chairmen appreciated the Governor for approving a series of activities designed to impact residents directly at the grassroots level. They pointed to the free medical outreach for senior citizens aged fifty and above, as well as vulnerable residents across all thirty-three local government areas, as evidence of an administration that prioritizes the welfare of its people even in times of celebration.

The statement also detailed other activities that have marked the anniversary, including film screenings by renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan across zonal centres, a carnival, and a local government parade. The chairmen expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming events, such as the public lecture, symposium, novelty match, and the grand Golden Jubilee Gala and Award Night scheduled for February 3. These events, they argued, serve to foster a sense of shared identity and pride among the diverse population of the state.

Focusing on the current administration, the forum stated that Governor Makinde’s "Five-Point Agenda" has become the cornerstone of accelerated development in Oyo State. They asserted that since assuming office, the Governor has delivered measurable progress across key sectors, significantly improving the quality of life for residents. The chairmen credited this governance blueprint for driving inclusive growth and positioning the state on a sustainable path of progress, ensuring that the benefits of democracy reach every corner of the state.

The local government bosses reaffirmed their commitment to working in synergy with the state government to consolidate these gains. They noted that as the tier of government closest to the people, they are critical partners in the implementation of the Governor's vision. The forum pledged to continue mobilizing grassroots support for the administration's policies, ensuring that the "Omituntun" agenda translates into tangible improvements in rural and urban communities alike.

As Oyo State looks forward to the next fifty years, the council chairmen expressed optimism that the foundation laid by past and present leaders would yield even greater unity and prosperity. They called on all residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding, urging them to participate actively in the remaining activities of the Golden Jubilee. The statement concluded with prayers for the continued peace and stability of Oyo State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

The celebration of Oyo at 50 serves as a reminder of the state's rich heritage and its potential for future greatness. With the local government machinery fully aligned with the state’s developmental objectives, the anniversary is seen not just as a festivity, but as a renewal of the social contract between the leaders and the led.