The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has declared Tuesday, February 3, 2026, a public holiday across the state to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ogun State.
The declaration was made in a statement issued on Monday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Tokunbo Talabi. According to the statement, the public holiday is aimed at allowing residents to fully take part in activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee celebration of the state.
Talabi said the anniversary is a major milestone in the history of Ogun State, as it marks five decades of political existence, steady growth, and contributions to national development.
“The public holiday is to enable residents to fully participate in activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee celebration,” the statement read.
The state government called on residents to celebrate the historic event in an atmosphere of peace, unity, and togetherness. It also reaffirmed the commitment of the Abiodun administration to build on past achievements while speeding up development across the state.
Governor Abiodun, through the statement, urged residents to use the opportunity of the public holiday to actively participate in the various programmes designed to mark the 50th anniversary of the state, popularly known as the Gateway State.
Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, during the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed. The state was carved out of the old Western State, alongside Oyo and Ondo states, as part of efforts to bring government closer to the people and promote balanced development across the country.
Since its creation, Ogun State has played a key role in Nigeria’s political, economic, and social development. The state is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading centres of education, industry, and culture.
Ogun is often described as the “Gateway State” because of its strategic location. It shares boundaries with Lagos State to the south, Oyo and Osun states to the north, Ondo State to the east, and the Republic of Benin to the west. This location has helped to attract businesses, industries, and investments over the years.
The state is also known as the birthplace of many notable Nigerians who have made major contributions to the country’s development. These include former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, late business icon Chief Moshood Abiola, and several other leaders in politics, education, literature, and the private sector.
Over the years, Ogun State has recorded growth in areas such as education, agriculture, infrastructure, and industrial development. In recent times, the Abiodun administration has focused on road construction, health care improvement, education reform, and attracting investors to the state.
The Golden Jubilee celebration is expected to reflect on the journey of the state over the past 50 years, celebrate current achievements, and project plans for a better future. According to the state government, the anniversary activities will showcase Ogun’s history, culture, and economic potential.
Although full details of the programme were not outlined in the statement, the government said the celebration would feature a rich line-up of events. These activities are expected to include cultural displays, thanksgiving services, public lectures, exhibitions, and other programmes that highlight the state’s progress and aspirations.
The statement noted that the anniversary provides an opportunity for residents, both at home and in the diaspora, to come together and celebrate the identity and achievements of the state.
Governor Abiodun has repeatedly stated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development. The Golden Jubilee, according to government officials, is not just a celebration of the past but also a moment to renew commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Ogun State.
Residents across the state welcomed the declaration of the public holiday, describing it as a chance to reflect on the state’s journey and participate in the historic celebration. Some residents said the holiday would also allow families and communities to come together to mark the occasion.
As Ogun State turns 50, many observers see the celebration as a reminder of how far the state has come and the work that still lies ahead. With its strategic location, rich human resources, and growing economy, expectations remain high for the state’s future.
The state government has therefore called on all residents to join in celebrating the Golden Jubilee in a peaceful manner, while supporting efforts to move Ogun State to greater heights in the years ahead.