Governor Ademola Adeleke has vowed to continue tackling key challenges in Osun State, including unpaid salaries, poor infrastructure, and financial mismanagement, as his administration enters its third year.
Reflecting on the journey from despair to hope, Adeleke described the strides made under his leadership, attributing the successes to strategic planning, financial prudence, and a commitment to the people’s welfare.
“Two years ago, we inherited a state struggling with infrastructural decay, workers’ dissatisfaction, and inadequate policies in critical sectors,” Adeleke began in a broadcast from Osogbo. “Today, we can confidently say that Osun State is rising, stronger and more united than ever before.”
Rebuilding Trust: Public Servants and Pensioners
One of the immediate challenges Adeleke’s administration tackled was restoring the trust of public servants and pensioners, many of whom were left in despair by previous governments. “We all recall the pains and sufferings of the public servants and pensioners,” he said. Over the past two years, the administration has paid ₦12 billion in pension arrears, surpassing what the previous government managed in 12 years.
The payment of half-salary debts, the implementation of a new minimum wage for state workers, and the regular promotion of public servants are among the policies aimed at fostering workers’ confidence in governance.
Health for All: Primary Care and Outreach
Adeleke emphasized the importance of health care in his administration’s agenda. “We upgraded 200 primary health care centers out of almost 400 with solar power, boreholes, and medical materials,” he said. Plans are also in place to upgrade six general hospitals.
In addition to infrastructural improvements, the government conducted two Imole Medical Outreach programs that served over 100,000 residents, with a third on the horizon. To ensure inclusivity, 29,000 pensioners have been enrolled in the state’s health insurance scheme.
Bridging the Water Gap
Facing acute water shortages, Adeleke’s government embarked on a comprehensive water strategy. Over 332 boreholes were delivered across the state, with another 332 in progress. The rehabilitation of aged water pipes and the revival of abandoned water schemes form part of the long-term solutions to the crisis.
Education: A Strong Foundation for the Future
Adeleke celebrated the establishment of the University of Ilesa, a landmark achievement within his first two years. “The University of Ilesa has become a reality, with takeoff grants and accredited courses,” he announced. Additionally, 99 secondary schools have been rehabilitated, and six technical colleges are undergoing upgrades to bolster technical education.
The administration is also prioritizing tertiary education, completing four abandoned projects at Osun State University and constructing a new anatomy laboratory.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth
Under Adeleke’s leadership, over 120 kilometers of roads have been constructed, while major projects such as the Osogbo flyovers, the Iwo-Osogbo road, and the Ile-Ife flyover are nearing completion. “We have prioritized roads that connect communities and open up economic opportunities,” he said.
Economic empowerment programs have provided millions of naira in revolving loans to cooperative societies and artisans. Microcredit support for small businesses is set to expand during the anniversary celebrations.
Technology and Energy Innovations
Adeleke’s government has introduced Osun’s first ICT and digital economy policies, promoting innovation and growth. In the energy sector, the administration is finalizing policies to regulate and enhance the state’s electricity market system.
Transparent and Accountable Governance
Governor Adeleke assured residents that his administration has achieved these milestones without taking loans. “We blocked leakages in state finances, employed local content to moderate project costs, and enforced high standards,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As his administration enters its third year, Adeleke promised to complete ongoing projects and continue citizen engagement. “We are building a state that balances hard and soft infrastructure, prioritizing the voices and needs of our people,” he said.
The governor invited residents to participate in town hall meetings and project commissioning events scheduled for the anniversary. “Osun’s transformation is a collective effort, and together, we will achieve even greater heights,” he concluded.
Adeleke’s address paints a picture of a state undergoing significant transformation, setting a foundation for future growth and development in Osun State.
