The Ondo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has described the state’s Golden Jubilee as a moment of pride, reflection and renewed commitment to responsible leadership and citizenship.

The agency made this known during a public lecture held in Akure as part of activities marking Ondo @ 50, where it praised the vision of the state’s founding fathers and commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for sustaining their legacy.

Why it matters

Ondo State, created in 1976, has grown into a major oil-producing and agrarian state in south-west Nigeria, with rising expectations around governance, civic values and inclusive development.

The Golden Jubilee comes at a time when public trust, youth engagement and value reorientation remain central to development debates across Nigeria.

In a congratulatory message signed by the Ondo State Director of NOA, Mrs Olufunke Moradeyo Adekunle, the agency said the milestone belongs to both the government and the people of the state.

“Ondo State at 50 is not just a celebration of years, but a celebration of resilience, purposeful leadership and the enduring spirit of its people,” she said.

“The labour of our founding fathers has not been in vain, as it continues to yield visible fruits in our growth and collective achievements.”

Founding ideals and civic responsibility

Mrs Adekunle said the anniversary highlights the need for unity, value reorientation and responsible citizenship to sustain development in the next phase of the state’s history.

She urged residents to uphold discipline, hard work and patriotism, describing them as the core values handed down by the pioneers of the state.

Speaking to journalists at the lecture held at the International Event Centre (The Dome), Akure, she said the Golden Jubilee was an opportunity to honour the sacrifices that laid the foundation for Ondo’s progress.

Government reaction

The management and staff of the National Orientation Agency also congratulated Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, praising his leadership and commitment to consolidating gains made over the last five decades.

The agency expressed confidence that Ondo State would witness greater stability, innovation and inclusive development under his administration.

What’s next

Mrs Adekunle said the National Orientation Agency would intensify civic engagement and sensitisation programmes across the state, aimed at strengthening public trust and encouraging active citizenship beyond the anniversary celebrations.

She reaffirmed the agency’s role in promoting national values at the grassroots level as Ondo State charts its next 50 years.

The Owo Youth General Assembly (OYGA) has formally endorsed Chief Alex Ajipe as its preferred candidate for the Ondo North Senatorial seat ahead of the 2026 general elections.

The endorsement was announced after a consultative meeting involving youth leaders, student union executives and community representatives from across Owo and the wider Ondo North Senatorial District.

OYGA is regarded as one of the most influential youth platforms in the district, making its decision a potentially significant boost for Chief Ajipe’s political ambition.

Why it matters

Youth groups are playing an increasingly visible role in Nigeria’s political process, often shaping voter mobilisation and grassroots campaigns.

With Ondo North facing persistent challenges around unemployment, infrastructure and economic inclusion, the group says its choice was driven by economic priorities rather than political loyalty.

Ajipe outlines ‘Sunshine Mandate’

Addressing the gathering, Chief Ajipe told the youths that his focus would be on economic empowerment rather than political symbolism.

“My vision for Ondo North is not about titles. It is about economic dignity,” he said.

“We have the resources, the land, and our vibrant Owo youths. We need a Senator who turns potential into prosperity.”

He highlighted his involvement in industrial development, particularly his role in the growth of the Ore industrial corridor, as evidence of his capacity to deliver economic results.

Youth representatives at the consultative meeting

Industry and youth reactions

Members of the assembly said they assessed several aspirants before settling on Chief Ajipe.

According to the group, his private-sector background distinguished him as a job creator rather than a career politician.

Youth leaders also cited his willingness to engage directly with grassroots communities, rather than relying on intermediaries, as a key factor in their decision.

A senior OYGA youth leader described the endorsement as unanimous.

“We have evaluated all contenders, and Chief Alex Ajipe is the bridge from our current challenges to the prosperity we deserve,” the youth leader said.

“Owo youths are not just supporting him. We declare him our candidate.”

Focus on infrastructure and jobs

The meeting featured an interactive session on infrastructure, agriculture and youth empowerment, which participants say shaped the final decision.

The discussion ended with a formal motion endorsing Chief Ajipe, which was adopted unanimously by the assembly.

Candidate reacts

Chief Ajipe thanked the youths for their support and said the endorsement strengthened his resolve to pursue youth-led development in the district.

“This endorsement fuels our collective march toward a brighter Ondo North,” he said.

What’s next

Chief Ajipe is expected to intensify consultations across Ondo North in the coming months as more political groups begin to signal their preferences.

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has highlighted physical fitness and spiritual renewal as key to effective service, as the state marks its 50th anniversary.

He spoke on Saturday at the Akure Township Stadium after leading a 5km health walk from the Government House in Alagbaka to the stadium, an event organised as part of activities to celebrate the state’s golden jubilee.

Members of the State Executive Council, political appointees, party leaders and hundreds of residents took part in the walk, with many describing the exercise as refreshing and unifying.

Speaking after the walk, the governor urged residents to prioritise their physical and spiritual wellbeing.

“The body carries the soul and the spirit, and it must be kept in good shape to function effectively,” Dr Aiyedatiwa said.

Drawing from biblical references, he added that spiritual renewal strengthens resilience, noting that participants completed the walk without any reported injuries.

“Waiting upon God renews strength, and today’s walk shows that with commitment, the body can endure and remain strong,” he said.

The governor explained that regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, improves breathing and enhances overall wellbeing, warning that poor health could affect productivity and spiritual focus.

He expressed satisfaction with the large turnout and commended the anniversary planning committee, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, for the smooth conduct of the event.

Why It Matters

Ondo State was created in 1976, and its 50th anniversary offers a moment to reflect on governance, health, unity and development.

For residents, the celebration is also an opportunity to reconnect with the state’s history and future aspirations.

Public Holidays Declared

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the governor has approved today Monday, 2 February, and Tuesday, 3 February 2026 as public holidays across Ondo State.

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, the holidays are meant to allow residents fully participate in jubilee activities.

“The declaration is to enable residents of Ondo State fully participate in activities lined up to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the creation of Ondo State, a historic milestone that marks five decades of growth, resilience and collective progress,” the statement said.

The governor urged citizens to use the period to reflect on the state’s journey and recommit to building a more prosperous and united Ondo State.

Essential service providers, however, were advised to ensure uninterrupted services during the holiday period.

What’s Next

Anniversary activities will continue on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at St Thomas Church in Akure.

More cultural, civic and commemorative events are expected in the coming days as the state rounds off its golden jubilee celebrations.