On Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, history gracefully echoed at the June 12 Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, as Ogun State joined the rest of the nation to celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The event was graced by eminent personalities, led by the Executive Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, his wife Her Excellency Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele FNSE, and the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi.
Among the distinguished guests was the former Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, whose presence and participation added both depth and dignity to the celebration.
The roll call of attendees reflected Ogun’s enviable position as the political heartbeat of the Southwest. The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Daisi Olusegun Victor Elemide, National Assembly members, State Cabinet members, Chairmen of Local Governments, Councillors, and political leaders were in full strength.
The celebration was further enriched by the presence of revered monarchs, including the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Dr. Babatunde Adewale Ajayi CFR, Torungbuwa II; Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo CFR, Okukenu IV; Awujale Regency, Dr. Sunny Kuku; and the Onimeko of Imeko, Oba Benjamen Oyeditan Olanite, alongside other traditional rulers.
Religious leaders, market leaders, service chiefs, women, youth, students, and citizens from all walks of life filled the venue, giving the celebration a broad-based and unifying character.
In his Independence message, Governor Abiodun praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for steering Nigeria with courage, noting that Nigeria’s renewal demands collective responsibility. He emphasized that Ogun, as the “Gateway State,” will continue to contribute to national development by turning promises into tangible realities. The Governor called on Nigerians to remain optimistic and united in building a stronger, democratic, and prosperous nation.
Speaking to the media shortly after the official ceremonies, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola OFR delivered a goodwill message that struck deep chords of patriotism and hope. As a seasoned diplomat and public servant, he reminded Nigerians—particularly the youths—that independence is not just a date on the calendar, but a call to action.
“At 65, Nigeria has proven its resilience as a sovereign nation, overcoming civil strife, economic turbulence, and political challenges. What defines us is not our difficulties, but our ability to rise above them. As citizens, we must never give up on Nigeria. To our youths, you are not just the leaders of tomorrow—you are the builders of today. Seize opportunities in education, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship to position Nigeria at the forefront of global progress. Our founding fathers gave us freedom; it is our duty to give future generations prosperity.”
Ambassador Isola also acknowledged the bold reforms of President Tinubu, describing them as necessary steps for long-term growth. He encouraged Nigerians to practice patience, resilience, and collective responsibility, stressing that the unity of the nation rests on bridging divides of religion, ethnicity, and political differences.
The 65th Independence celebration was not only about speeches; it was also a vibrant showcase of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. Schoolchildren staged captivating performances, with poetry, drama, and choral renditions that celebrated the journey of the nation. Traditional dancers adorned in colorful attire thrilled the audience with cultural displays, while the national cake was jointly cut as a symbol of unity and shared progress. The jubilation was a reminder that, despite challenges, Nigerians remain hopeful and resilient.
Ambassador Isola’s presence was a reminder of Ogun State’s rich tradition of producing leaders of international repute who bring their global experience back home to inspire progress. His message stood as a rallying cry for unity, discipline, and the renewal of hope—principles that the Nigerian youth and indeed the entire citizenry must embrace as the nation charts its course for the future.
The event at June 12 Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta was not only a commemoration of the past 65 years but also a bold proclamation of Nigeria’s resilience, renewal, and readiness for greater achievements. And at the center of that proclamation stood leaders like Governor Dapo Abiodun and Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, whose voices of experience and patriotism continue to light the path of national progress.
