By Abiodun Lawal
Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun on Tuesday said President Bola Tinubu had consistently approved all requests from the state aimed at promoting development.Abiodun made the statement in Abeokuta at a state banquet organised to mark the 50th anniversary of Ogun State.
The governor expressed appreciation to the President for believing in his administration and for the continued support enjoyed by the state.
He noted that the rapid growth recorded would not have been possible without Tinubu’s backing.
“I want to thank our President, Bola Tinubu. Your Excellency, Mr President, on your mandate we shall continue to stand.
“I thank you for your faith in me, for your trust in me and for the support you continue to give our great state.
“Let me confess that there is hardly anything I have asked Mr President on behalf of Ogun State that he has not approved. Mr President, thank you for making me not just a superstar, but a rockstar,” Abiodun said.
The governor also appreciated all stakeholders who had partnered with his administration in building the future of the state.
Recalling his assumption of office on May 29, 2019, Abiodun said the administration began with lofty dreams, but was confronted with realities that were far from its aspirations.
“Together, slowly but surely, we began to walk our talk, making promises and keeping those promises.
“From the nooks and crannies of Ogun West to Ogun East and Ogun Central, Ogun State has now occupied its pride of place in the committee of states, not just in Nigeria but across the world,” he said.
Abiodun said the state had attained unprecedented prominence, placing it on a pedestal comparable to Lagos State, which has the fifth-largest economy in Africa.
“I will make two promises to you. First, that every promise I make, I will ensure that I keep.
“Secondly, as I promised when I took the oath of office the first and second time, I will continue to be just, fair and equitable,” he said.
In his remarks, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo said the celebration was not just about marking 50 years of existence, but about celebrating 50 years of excellence.
Osinbajo said no state compared with Ogun in terms of excellence and performance, particularly in industrialisation.
“The governor has many achievements, but what gives me the greatest satisfaction are the big projects, because they make a real difference.
“We now have one of the most vibrant special economic zones and a free trade zone of our own. We also have a cargo airport, not just any cargo airport.
“All of us who are citizens of this state want to say thank you,” he said.
In his goodwill message, Sen. Solomon Adeola commended Abiodun for massive infrastructure development across all parts of the state.
