Ogun State has designated Tuesday a day of rest for its residents to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its founding, as authorities roll out events honoring the region’s half-century of progress and unity.
Governor Dapo Abiodun sanctioned the public holiday for February 3, aligning with the exact date of the state’s establishment in 1976, according to a communique from state secretary Tokunbo Talabi released Monday.
The break aims to foster widespread involvement in the golden jubilee festivities, which spotlight Ogun’s evolution and role in Nigeria’s broader advancement.
“The public holiday is to enable residents to fully participate in activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee celebration,” Talabi said, calling on locals to “celebrate the historic milestone in an atmosphere of unity and peace.”
He conveyed Abiodun’s appeal for citizens to “take advantage of the public holiday to actively participate in the events marking the 50th anniversary of the Gateway State.”
The lineup includes reflective gatherings on the state’s heritage, acknowledgments of current achievements, and visions for sustained growth, with the government pledging to fast-track development initiatives.
Ogun, dubbed the Gateway State for its strategic position near Lagos, has grown into an industrial and agricultural powerhouse since its carve-out from the former Western Region five decades ago.
