The Oyo State Government has unveiled a week-long programme of activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state, with plans to honour all 17 former governors who have administered the state since its inception.

Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, following the dissolution of the old Western State into Oyo, Ogun and Ondo states by the military government of the late General Murtala Mohammed.

Speaking with journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday, Chairman of the Oyo @50 Anniversary Committee, Mr. Saheed Fijabi, said the golden jubilee celebrations would commence on January 26 and climax on February 3, 2026.

According to him, the grand finale will feature a gala night and dinner at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Agodi, where the state will formally honour all former governors. He added that families of deceased governors would receive the awards on their behalf.

Fijabi disclosed that notable indigenes who have made significant contributions to the development of the state would also be recognised during the celebrations.

He explained that the opening ceremony will hold at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, where Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to address residents of the state.

The programme lineup, he said, will include cultural displays and performances by secondary school students, as well as a statewide health outreach scheduled for January 27 across the 33 local government areas.

“The medical outreach will target residents aged 50 years and above, providing free consultations and treatment,” he stated.

Fijabi further revealed that a symposium and public lecture will be held on January 29 at the University of Ibadan. The lecture, titled “Consolidating the legacy, navigating the present and re-imagining the future,” will be delivered by renowned economist and Executive Chairman of the African Centre for Shared Development Capacity Building, Prof. Olu Ajakaiye.

He added that a Jumat service and a golf tournament have been scheduled for January 30, while January 31 has been designated as Youth Day, featuring a football competition and the recognition of outstanding young innovators and change-makers in the state.

According to him, an interdenominational church service will take place on February 1, followed by special programmes for elderly women and persons living with disabilities.

The celebrations will culminate on February 3 with the official anniversary ceremony and honours night.