Oyo Honours Aboderin, Akande, Ladoja, 71 Others at Golden Jubilee Awards Ceremony
Oyo State’s 50th anniversary celebration reached its peak in Ibadan on January 3, 2026 as the family of PUNCH founder, the late Olu Aboderin, former Minister of Industry Chief Onikepo Akande, the Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and 71 other prominent sons and daughters of the state received special awards.
The ceremony took place at the new Banquet Hall of the Government House, Ibadan, with at least 17 former military administrators and civilian governors of the state in attendance. The late Aboderin was honoured with the Media Icon Award, while Akande received the Merit Award of Excellence.
Governor Seyi Makinde used the occasion to reflect on the state’s history, saying his own life was shaped by the free education policy introduced by former Governor Bola Ige. He described the policy as one of the strongest legacies of Oyo State.
Makinde said Oyo had passed through many phases, including military rule and the return to democracy in 1999, which shifted attention to rebuilding institutions and strengthening governance across the state.
He explained that infrastructure renewal, security reforms, and urban modernisation later became key priorities that helped the state overcome difficult periods and build stronger systems for development.
The governor announced that major projects would be commissioned throughout the anniversary year, including the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, now an international facility, and parts of the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. He said the first segment of the circular road would be opened before the end of March 2026.
Makinde also revealed that the state had ordered surveillance aircraft to boost security and modern electric buses to improve public transportation, stressing that development must be based on lasting systems and not temporary show.
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, praised Makinde’s leadership and said Ibadan was gradually returning to its historic status as one of Nigeria’s leading cities. He noted that the celebration was about the people and the shared journey of the state.
Residents of Ibadan witnessed an aerial display as three aircraft performed for nearly 30 minutes, while roads around the venue were closed due to the heavy presence of dignitaries and guests at the event.
The anniversary programme, which started earlier in January, includes cultural exhibitions, religious services, public lectures, and project inaugurations, all aimed at reflecting on Oyo State’s journey since it was created on February 3, 1976, and looking ahead to its future.