The Oyo State Government has unveiled a week-long programme of activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state.
The programme was announced on Wednesday at a press briefing in Ibadan by the Chairman of the Anniversary Committee and former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi.
Akinade-Fijabi said the Golden Jubilee celebrations would combine reflection, cultural expression and forward-looking dialogue, in line with the development vision of Governor Seyi Makinde.
He disclosed that activities lined up for the anniversary include religious services, cultural exhibitions, award presentations and a public lecture titled “Consolidating the Legacy, Navigating the Present and Reimagining the Future.”
According to him, the celebration will commence on January 26 with a public lecture and an address by Governor Makinde at the University of Ibadan, and will culminate on February 3 with a dinner night to honour distinguished citizens and individuals who have contributed to the state’s growth and development.
Other programmes scheduled for the anniversary include health outreach initiatives across the state’s 33 local government areas, film shows in the six geo-political zones, a carnival, symposia, sports activities and women empowerment programmes.
Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, from the defunct Western Region, with Ibadan as its capital.
