The ancient town of Itori came alive in colour, culture and celebration as the Ewekoro Local Government Area joined the rest of the state to mark the Golden Jubilee of Ogun State, turning the venue of the celebration into a vibrant carnival and cultural jamboree.
Addressing a large gathering at the colourful event, the Executive Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa, described Ogun State as one of Nigeria’s foremost states whose contributions to national development since its creation remain outstanding.
According to him, Ogun State has produced some of Nigeria’s most celebrated nationalists, activists and statesmen who played critical roles in the country’s freedom, liberation and democratic journey.
“Ogun State has been the birthplace of several prominent Nigerians who contributed immensely to the political, social and economic development of our nation,” he said.
He listed notable figures such as the late sage and former Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo; Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, the first civilian Governor of Ogun State; Madam Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti; Madam Efunroye Tinubu; Chief Ladipo Solanke, among many others.
Hon. Adesina also paid glowing tribute to the late business mogul and democracy icon, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, acknowledging his ultimate sacrifice in the struggle against military rule and the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
“Chief M.K.O. Abiola paid the supreme price in the fight against military dictatorship, paving the way for the democratic freedom Nigerians enjoy today,” he stated.
Speaking further, the Chairman expressed delight that the celebration of Ogun State’s 50th anniversary coincided with renewed focus on the developmental contributions of Ewekoro Local Government to the state and the nation at large.
He noted that Ewekoro has contributed significantly to Ogun State’s economy through its vast God-given mineral resources, including large deposits of limestone that support cement production, as well as clay, kaolin and other mineral resources.
He added that the local government has also played a major role in food security, through agricultural production that supports both the state and the country.
“I am bold to say that Ewekoro Local Government is emerging as the ‘heartbeat’ of Ogun State,” the Chairman declared.
Hon. Adesina seized the occasion to congratulate the Executive Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, whom he described as a visionary leader driving massive infrastructural development, industrial growth and economic transformation across the Gateway State.
“Your zeal to position Ogun State as an industrial hub and economic basket of the nation cannot be overlooked by the people of Ewekoro Local Government,” he said.
The Chairman also extended appreciation to key stakeholders contributing to Ogun State’s development, particularly from Ewekoro Local Government.
These included traditional rulers, political office holders, career officers, security agencies, community leaders, religious leaders, market men and women, women and youth leaders, transport workers and the good people of Ewekoro.
They particularly praised the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON, for his developmental strides, while also applauding Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa for his impactful administration at the grassroots.
The speakers urged citizens to continue supporting the administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa to sustain growth and development .
Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairman of the Ogun @ 50 Organising Committee in Ewekoro Local Government, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Local Government, Alhaja Abisola Nurat Aliyu, gave thanks to God for the opportunity to witness the 50th anniversary of Ogun State.
She described Ogun State as one of Nigeria’s pivotal states, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth through its rich human and mineral resources.
Alhaja Aliyu congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun on the historic milestone and also commended Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa, his administrative team, political stakeholders and staff of the local government for their dedication and service.
She urged residents to continue supporting the state and local government administrations in their drive to take Ogun State and Ewekoro Local Government to greater heights.
The celebration featured prayers in both Islamic and Christian ways for Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State and Nigeria at large , traditional music, cultural dances, Ewi renditions and musical performances, which thrilled the massive crowd in attendance.
The event was attended by government officials, political leaders, royal fathers, Baales, party faithful and other key stakeholders from across the state.
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