President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday night joined Nigerians from all walks of life to celebrate the high standards’ state of Ogun as the state marked its
fortieth year of existence. Ogun state was created alongside Ondo and Oyo states from the then Western state by military Head of state, General Ramat Murtala Mohammed, on February 3rd, 1976.
President Buhari had first visited the paramount rulers of Egba and Ijebuland respectively before stepping into the celebration’s arena at about 8:40pm.
He in company of host governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun were treated to grand callisthenic displays at the event which had an array of celebrities like former President Olusegun Obasanjo, actors Olu Jacob, Charles Olumo, Dele Odule, Jimmy Solanke and cinematographer Tunde Kelani as well as singer Sir Shina Peters.
The Christian prayer was said by the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Ogun State, Rev. Timothy Ajibola who prayed for Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari and more good things for Ogun State.
The Moslem prayer was said by the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Islam, who thanked Allah for granting wisdom and strength to the President. He said Allah would give strength to Governor Ibikunle Amosun quoting from Quran chapter 43.
The callisthenic displays featured power-bike riders, skating and iconic masquerade like Eyo and Agemo. Welcoming the celebrants, the state Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun said that the time and day of the event and the presence of President Buhari was significant.
He said that in the next few years, Ogun state would have attained the status of being the reference point in the country and the whole world.
Addressing the crowd, President Buhari apologized for coming late because he first had to receive the Prime Minister of Italy, after which he flew to Lagos and first visited the Awujale of Ijebu.
He expressed delight at the exceptional show put up by the children. The celebrations continue to the day after.