President Bola Tinubu has urged the people of Ondo State to look beyond celebrations marking the state’s Golden Jubilee and embrace the anniversary as a call to action for unity, inclusive governance, youth-driven development and economic transformation.
The President made this call in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.
Tinubu described the Golden Jubilee as a defining moment to reflect on past achievements while setting a bold and ambitious vision for the next 50 years, noting that milestones of such magnitude must translate into renewed commitment to progress.
“Fifty years is a significant milestone, but it is also a call to action,” the President said, urging leaders and citizens to deepen unity, strengthen democracy and expand opportunities for all residents of the state.
He commended the people of Ondo State for their resilience, industriousness and civic responsibility, particularly praising their conduct during recent national elections, which he said demonstrated discipline, active participation and commitment to democratic ideals.
According to Tinubu, Ondo State has distinguished itself over the decades in education, public service, culture and economic contribution, producing leaders and professionals who have played key roles in Nigeria’s growth and stability.
The President identified agriculture, education, technology and the blue economy as strategic sectors capable of driving Ondo State’s future prosperity, citing the state’s fertile land, coastline, mineral resources and youthful population as critical advantages.
He assured the state of the Federal Government’s continued support in harnessing these opportunities, improving infrastructure, strengthening security and empowering communities to ensure inclusive growth.
Tinubu also delivered a special message to the youth of Ondo State, describing them as the drivers of the next phase of development and urging them to embrace innovation, education, discipline and service as tools for shaping the future.
He further highlighted Ondo State’s rich cultural heritage, stressing that festivals, traditional institutions and artisanship remain vital assets for unity, identity and sustainable development.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, the President pledged that no citizen would be excluded on the basis of religion, political affiliation or social background, adding that peace, tolerance and mutual respect remain pillars of national progress.
Tinubu called on the people of Ondo State to work collectively to make the state a model for national development, a hub for innovation and education, and a centre of agricultural and technological excellence.
He congratulated the government and people of Ondo State on the Golden Jubilee, assuring them of the Federal Government’s partnership as the state charts its course for the next 50 years.
In a remark, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also reassured workers, entrepreneurs, farmers, artisans, professionals and investors of his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where hard work is rewarded, innovation is encouraged and talent is allowed to thrive without hindrance.
Reflecting on the state’s journey, Aiyedatiwa noted that Ondo State began 50 years ago as an idea and a vision rooted in hope, but has today grown into a thriving reality, expressing confidence that the state would continue to rise as a beacon of excellence, stability and progress among states in the federation through unity and collective effort.
He disclosed that part of the Golden Jubilee activities included an award night to honour frontline visionaries and icons whose contributions laid the foundation for the state and shaped its development over the decades.
The governor urged the people to celebrate the anniversary with gratitude, humility and renewed resolve, calling for unity of purpose and continued commitment to service as Ondo State charts its path beyond the Golden Jubilee.
