Former House of Representatives member, Honourable Saheed Akinade Fijabi has accepted his nomination as Chairman of the Oyo State @ 50 anniversary committee.
Recall that, Fijabi was announced the Chairman, Oyo Golden Jubilee on Monday, 6th October, 2025 alongside 10 others.
In a statement released by the two term house of Representatives member from Ibadan North West/South West Federal Constituency, Fijabi expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for the appointment, pledging to lead the celebration with commitment and integrity.
He emphasized the committee’s responsibility to reaffirm the state’s role as leader, renewing commitment to pioneering spirit and past leaders’ sacrifices.
I wish to sincerely thank His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde for the honour of appointing me as Chairman of the Oyo State @ 50 Anniversary Committee.
I humbly accept this responsibility and pledge to serve with commitment and integrity alongside other distinguished members to deliver a befitting celebration of our State’s golden jubilee.
As Oyo State clocks fifty, we celebrate not just five decades of growth, but the enduring legacy of a pacesetter state that has continually defined excellence and innovation in Nigeria.
We stand at a crossroads of memory and aspiration. From its founding under the military administration, when it was carved out of the old Western State to bring governance closer to the people, Oyo State has matured, evolved, and contributed richly to Nigeria’s national project.
Over these five decades, Oyo State has transformed from a largely agrarian and academic base into a dynamic centre for commerce, intellect, politics, and culture. Its capital, Ibadan, itself has served as the political and economic hub of southern Nigeria, hosting notable institutions and innovations.
Across its history, Oyo State has often set benchmarks that other states sought to match. We have always been a state of many firsts, not only in Nigeria but also in Africa.
That tradition of leadership, innovation, and high standards must not slip into mere nostalgia.
As Oyo State marks its 50th anniversary, we have the responsibility to reaffirm our role as a pacesetter state in Nigeria, renewing our commitment to our pioneering spirit and the sacrifices of our past leaders. From the past to the present wins, magnifying the excellent impactful works and achievements of our dear Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde.
Oyo State @ 50 is not merely a state celebration, but part of Nigeria’s ongoing story. This golden jubilee celebration will inspire confidence, generate new agendas, and contribute to national regeneration.
As Chairman, I commit myself and, with humility, call on every member of the Committee to bring integrity, creativity, energy, and diligence to this assignment.
Again, I am deeply honored by this appointment, and I pledge to uplift the stature, dignity, and legacy of this golden jubilee for Oyo State, and through our efforts, contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s ongoing journey.
May Oyo @ 50 be celebrated in unity, progress, and purpose.
Long live Oyo State
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria
