Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured residents of the state that there will be a smooth and peaceful transfer of power at the end of his second term in 2027.
Abiodun said his administration is determined to set a new record by handing over without conflict or bitterness, describing the planned transition as unprecedented in the state’s history.
The governor gave the assurance on Thursday during a Christmas service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu-Remo, in Ikenne Local Government Area.
“As we approach 2027, not only will we finish well and finish strong, by the grace of God this administration will hand over successfully to a successor,” he said.
He added, “It will be the first peaceful transition in the 50-year history of Ogun State. By God’s grace, I will sit down as your governor at my send-forth ceremony and also sit at the swearing-in ceremony of my successor.”
Abiodun said his confidence was anchored on what he described as strong governance, economic growth and people-centred projects implemented by his administration.
According to him, Ogun State’s economy has grown significantly since he assumed office.
“Our economy has grown almost five times from what we met on ground. Our budget has moved from about N355 billion to over N2.7 trillion. New factories and industries are springing up across the state,” the governor said.
He listed some of the achievements of his government to include the reconstruction of over 2,000 schools, job creation, support for farmers and the expansion of economic opportunities for residents.
“We have created jobs, empowered farmers and expanded opportunities for our people, and we are not done yet. We need your prayers to finish strong,” he added.
Abiodun also said he remains committed to serving the people and honouring God through his office, citing the Gateway International Airport and other infrastructure projects across the three senatorial districts as key legacies of his administration.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that his leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda is contributing to national stability.
“The country is gradually stabilising with improved availability of petroleum products, easing inflation and a more stable foreign exchange system,” he said.
Speaking on the significance of Christmas, Abiodun reminded residents that the season symbolises love, peace and care for others, particularly the less privileged.
“Many people think Christmas is about shopping or partying, but that is not what Christmas is about. Christmas is about love, loving your neighbour as yourself,” he said.
He urged residents to celebrate moderately, live Christ-like lives and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.
In his sermon titled “Christmas Is God’s Best Gift to You,” the Vicar of the church, Venerable Tolulope Akinwande, described Christmas as the season when God gave Himself to humanity through Jesus Christ.
He said the purpose of Christ’s birth could only be fulfilled when people accept Him, noting that Jesus came to save mankind from sin.
Ven. Akinwande also commended Governor Abiodun’s leadership and prayed that the final years of his administration would surpass its early achievements.
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