The 50th Anniversary of Ogun State’s creation was celebrated in grand style on Thursday February 5, with a dazzling cultural carnival and road show that transformed the streets of Abeokuta into a vibrant spectacle of colour, music, and heritage.
The procession featured six elaborately decorated floats representing the state’s major regions — Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba (RIYE) — alongside a symbolic fish float paying tribute to the riverine communities. Each float highlighted Ogun’s rich cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions.
Speaking at a reception at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Governor Dapo Abiodun hailed the event as a testament to the state’s growing prominence in Nigeria. He credited Ogun’s progress to the resilience, creativity, and dedication of its people.
Describing the carnival as a celebration of cultural strength and organisational capacity, Governor Abiodun said:
“Just as we demonstrated during the National Sports Festival, Ogun State is not only the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity but also a hub for tourism, culture, and social awakening. Today’s festivities have been remarkable, spectacular, and truly inspiring.”
He also paid tribute to past leaders for laying the foundations for the State’s development and to Civil Servants whose commitment has propelled Ogun’s economic growth. The Governor emphasized that decades of collective effort and sacrifice have transformed Ogun into a cultural and economic hub.
Designed to promote unity, heritage, and resilience, the Golden Jubilee carnival showcased the State’s shared identity and pride. No fewer than 3,000 participants from the 20 Local Government areas joined the celebrations, including dancers in traditional attire, drummers, masquerades, folkloric performers, skaters, and bikers, creating an electrifying atmosphere across the city.
The highlight of the event was a grand procession that moved from Oke-Igbein through Omida and Oke-Ilewo, culminating at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. The finale featured acrobatic displays, music, and cultural performances that thrilled spectators and reinforced Ogun State’s reputation as a beacon of heritage and progress.
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