Ondo State Government has rolled out an elaborate schedule of events to celebrate the state’s 50th anniversary since its creation on February 3, 1976, from the former Western Region. The celebrations, chaired by Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, blend reflection on past achievements with forward-looking discussions on sustainable growth under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s vision. This milestone honors five decades of resilience, cultural richness, and progressive governance while rallying residents, indigenes in the diaspora, and partners for unity and development.
Headline Speakers for Key Lecture
A flagship event is the public lecture on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at The Dome in Akure, themed “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee and an Ikaramu-Akoko native, will deliver the address, with Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, as chairman. Mrs. Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Energy and Founder/CEO of BFA Foundation, will also speak, bringing her two decades of expertise in gas, renewables, and women’s scholarships in high-growth sectors.
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Full Schedule of Events
Activities kick off on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with a World Press Conference at the Government House Banquet Hall from 11:00 a.m. to noon. This is followed by a Jumat Service on Friday, January 30, at the Central Mosque in Akure at 2:00 p.m., and a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, February 1, at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, Isinkan, Akure, at 10:00 a.m. On the anniversary proper, Tuesday, February 3, Governor Aiyedatiwa delivers a 7:00 a.m. state broadcast, followed by a 10:00 a.m. State Carnival at Ondo State Sports Stadium featuring processions, the Sunshine Cultural Festival, mass choirs, and artistic displays. The festivities wrap with a 5:00 p.m. Gala and Award Night at The Dome, honoring state heroes and heroines.
Planning and Background
Governor Aiyedatiwa constituted a 16-man committee in late December 2025, led by Dr. Fasoranti with Pastor Adeyemi Adeyemo as secretary, to orchestrate these events alongside his administration’s first anniversary. The lineup emphasizes intellectual discourse, cultural showcases, and stakeholder involvement to reflect Ondo’s journey and future aspirations. Dr. Fasoranti stressed the celebrations’ role in fostering unity and highlighting the state’s heritage.
