Ibarapakan Celebrates Oyo at 50, Commends Makinde for Institutional Renewal*

As Oyo State marks 50 years of its creation, member representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, has congratulated the government and people of Oyo State on the occasion of the state’s 50th anniversary.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday, January 26, 2026, Hon. Adepoju described the golden jubilee as a historic achievement that reflects resilience, cultural pride and enduring progress.

According to the Ibarapa-born politician, Oyo State’s journey over the past five decades has been defined by the strength of its people, the richness of its heritage and its strategic role in Nigeria’s political, educational and economic development.

The federal lawmaker said the anniversary is not only a moment of celebration but also an opportunity for sober reflection on the sacrifices of the state’s past leaders and pioneers who laid the foundation of a great and beautiful pacesetter state.

Joining a large throng of eminent personalities from Oyo State and beyond at the International Conference Centre (ICC), University of Ibadan Second Gate, on Monday, for the opening ceremony of the weeklong celebration, Hon. Adepoju commended his leader and mentor, His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde, for providing purposeful leadership at a time when Oyo State marks its golden jubilee.

“The celebrations marking the creation of the state have been framed around tangible progress, people-centred governance and long-term institutional renewal rather than mere festivities.

“Prominent among the historic edifices touched by the moment is the reconstruction of the Agodi Government House, where the popular banquet hall has been given a new lease of life to host events during the Oyo State 50th anniversary celebrations,” he remarked.

Ibarepakan stressed that initiatives tied to the golden jubilee accentuate a commitment to building enduring structures, strengthening public institutions and preserving the collective memory of the state for future generations.

The federal lawmaker called on all stakeholders, political leaders, traditional institutions, professionals, youths and residents to see the golden jubilee as a unifying moment that transcends partisan interests, urging citizens to recommit themselves to peace, unity and collective responsibility.

The Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character also paid tribute to former governors, public servants, community leaders and citizens whose contributions have shaped Oyo State’s growth over the last five decades, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved when history is acknowledged and lessons are learnt.

He, however, charged the youth of Oyo State to take ownership of the future, describing them as the engine that will drive innovation, economic growth and social transformation in the decades ahead.

“The next 50 years of Oyo State will largely be defined by the creativity and sense of responsibility embraced by our young population, of which Oyo State sits comfortably among the states with this important demographic advantage. I also want to seize this moment to reaffirm my commitment to quality representation and people-oriented service. I will continue to work in partnership with all levels of government to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency. In my own era and time, Oyo State will not be in a state of ruin or disaster,” he said.

The federal lawmaker expressed optimism that with sustained good governance, inclusive leadership and the collective will of the people, Oyo State’s best days lie ahead.

Hassan Adesodi Olaoniye

Special Adviser to Hon. Adebayo Adepoju

(Media and Publicity)

January 26, 2026