- Wasiu Adekunle Adejumo | Premier World News
As Ogun State marks its 50th anniversary since its creation on February 3, 1976, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, has issued a formal statement celebrating the media’s indispensable role in the state’s development and urging heightened patriotic engagement as the state charts its future course.
In a Golden Jubilee statement on Tuesday, signed by Comrade Wale Olanrewaju (Chairman) and Comrade Bunmi Adigun (Secretary) of the NUJ Ogun Council, the union reflected on the media’s journey from witness to active participant in the Gateway State’s socio‑political evolution.
The council described journalism as “the heartbeat of a functional society”, rooted in Ogun’s rich history of intellectualism and public discourse.
The statement noted that journalists in the state have consistently bridged the gap between government actions and citizens’ expectations through ethical reporting and principled critique.
“We congratulate our professional journalists for a job well done”, the NUJ said, acknowledging journalists who have worked tirelessly through changing political landscapes to tell Ogun’s story with integrity and resolve.
The statement paid tribute to the founding fathers of Ogun State and successive leaderships, from early Military Administrators to democratic governors, whose policies laid the groundwork for the state’s transformation into a modern industrial and educational hub.
The NUJ specifically commended the current administration’s “Building Our Future Together” agenda, highlighting progress in infrastructure, industrial revitalisation and the maintenance of Ogun’s reputation as Nigeria’s industrial capital.
Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Golden Jubilee broadcast echoed similar themes of progress and unity.
In a statewide address, the governor described the milestone as a moment for reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to sustainable development.
He noted that Ogun’s economy is now valued at about ₦17 trillion, with Internally Generated Revenue rising from approximately ₦52 billion in 2020 to ₦250 billion by 2025, an indicator of strong economic reforms and investment confidence.
Abiodun also highlighted Ogun’s strategic significance in education, infrastructure and industrial expansion, citing completion of the Gateway International Airport, extensive road networks, and advancing dry port projects like Kajola and Ijebu‑Ode, which are expected to enhance economic growth and regional competitiveness.
To enable broad participation in anniversary activities, the governor declared Tuesday, February 3, 2026, a public holiday across Ogun State, emphasising unity, peace and community engagement.
In its Golden Jubilee message, the NUJ also urged political stakeholders to prioritise peace and development in the forthcoming electioneering period and stressed that journalists will remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic values and ensuring accountability.
The council called for synergy among government, the private sector and the media to ensure that Ogun’s next 50 years reflect world‑class progress across all sectors.
“For Ogun to move so fast to its desired destinatio, all hands must be on deck”, the NUJ statement read, framing the media’s continued watchdog role as central to the state’s aspirations for peace, prosperity and enhanced global competitiveness.
Happy 50th Anniversary, Ogun State!
May the vision of yesterday and the energy of today chart a more prosperous tomorrow for all residents.
