Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun says the state’s economy has grown significantly since he assumed office, driven by industrial expansion.

Mr Abiodun said this on Thursday during a Christmas church service at St James’ Anglican Church, Iperu-Remo, in the Ikenne Local Government Area.

“Our economy has grown almost five times from what we met. New factories and industries are springing up across the state,” the governor said.

He, however, assured residents of a seamless, peaceful, and rancour-free transition at the end of his second term in 2027.

Mr Abiodun pledged to set a historic benchmark in Ogun’s governance, declaring his administration is determined to hand over power without acrimony.

“As we approach 2027, we will finish well and finish strong, and by God’s grace, hand over successfully to a successor.

“It will be the first peaceful transition in Ogun’s 50-year history. I will attend my send-forth and also the swearing-in of my successor,” he said.

Mr Abiodun attributed his confidence to solid governance, economic expansion, and people-focused development recorded under his administration.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s purposeful leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Reflecting on Christmas, Mr Abiodun said the season transcends merriment, stressing love, peace, and compassion for the vulnerable.

“Christmas is about loving your neighbour as yourself. There is no greater gift than God giving us Jesus,” he said.

He urged residents to live Christ-like lives, advising moderation in celebration and caution against excessive alcohol consumption.

In his sermon, the vicar, Tolulope Akinwande, described Christmas as God giving Himself to humanity through Jesus’ birth.

Quoting Hebrews 1:2–3, Mr Akinwande said Christ’s gift is fulfilled only when accepted, noting Jesus came to save mankind from sin.

(NAN)