By Kolawole Olayinka, Abeokuta
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has assured residents that his administration will ensure a smooth, peaceful and rancour-free transition of power at the end of his second term in 2027, pledging to set a historic benchmark in the state’s political history.
The governor gave the assurance on Thursday during the Christmas church service held at St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu-Remo, in Ikenne Local Government Area. He declared that his administration is determined to be the first in Ogun State to successfully hand over power without acrimony.
According to him, the government will not only end its tenure strongly but will also ensure a seamless transition to a successor.
“As we approach 2027, by the grace of God, this administration will finish well and finish strong. We will hand over power successfully to a successor.
“This 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 attend the swearing-in ceremony of my successor,” Abiodun said.
The governor attributed his confidence to the achievements recorded under his administration, citing improved governance, economic growth and people-focused development initiatives across the state.
He disclosed that Ogun State’s annual budget has grown from about ₦355 billion at the inception of his administration to over ₦2.7 trillion, reflecting increased economic activities and heightened investor confidence.
“Our economy has grown almost five times from what we met on ground. New factories and industries are springing up across the state. We have reconstructed over 2,000 schools, created jobs, empowered farmers and expanded opportunities for our people. And we are not done yet. We need your prayers to finish strong,” he stated.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people with dedication, noting that landmark projects such as the Gateway International Airport and other infrastructure developments across the three senatorial districts would remain lasting legacies of his administration.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing what he described as purposeful leadership through the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that the country is gradually stabilising with improved availability of petroleum products, easing inflation and a more stable foreign exchange regime.
Speaking on the significance of Christmas, the governor urged residents to reflect on the true meaning of the season, stressing that Christmas represents love, peace and compassion, especially for the less privileged.
“Christmas is not just about shopping or partying. It is about love — loving your neighbour as yourself. God gave us the greatest gift by giving us Jesus to die for our unrighteousness.
“In this season, we must remember to give to others and extend a hand of fellowship to the less privileged,” he said.
He advised residents to live Christ-like lives in their conduct and relationships, urging moderation in celebrations and caution against excessive alcohol consumption.
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 God gave Himself to humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ.
Quoting from Hebrews 1:2–3 and John 1:2, 14, the cleric said the purpose of Christ’s birth can only be fulfilled when the gift is accepted, noting that Jesus came to save mankind from sin.
Ven. Akinwande emphasized God’s boundless love for humanity and urged believers to embrace the sacrifice of Christ and live transformed lives that reflect His character. He also commended Governor Abiodun for his purposeful and transformative leadership, praying that the end of his tenure would be greater than its beginning.
