● Defends Climate Performance Records

OSOGBO – 13/08/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has advocated for a frontline role for subnational governments in the fight against climate change even as he defended the commendable records of his government in that sector.

The State Governor who made the observations yesterday while hosting a delegation of the Green Growth Africa Sustainability Network said state governments in Nigeria are at different levels of reactions and actions on the climate challenge, advising that rating states must start with a benchmark analysis of their peculiarities.

The governor, who further posited that states must be fully engaged in the review process beyond desk research, called for direct interactions between reviewers and state desk officers to correctly assess developments in each state.

Expanding on his government activities in the field of climate change, the state governor advocated for a renewed focus on the subnational governments in the fight against climate change.

“It is time for all stakeholders to accept the pivotal role of subnational governments in the climate war. The present focus on international and national platforms can not produce the desired results.

“Climate change is local as politics is local. The climate crisis is manifesting directly on the ground across the grassroots of the global world. Actions to remedy the situation should be redirected to the local level. That is the only way to halt the growing climate rupture”, the governor told the visiting group

Speaking further, Governor Adeleke flaunted his records, asserting that “our government is a green government that is pursuing a robust climate change agenda.

“We have a world-class consultant who is developing several policies and action plans. We have made strong headway in terms of policy framework as well as the development of investment portfolios for climate projects.

“I am also happy to inform you that Osun.is developing a carbon finance template to ensure Osun benefits from the new world of carbon credit. A lot of work has gone into this effort.

“To demonstrate strong political commitment and in line with requests of several international bodies, I have assumed the chairmanship of the Osun State Climate Change Action Council.

“The Council serves as a policy and clearing board for all climate-related matters as far as Osun state is concerned. The council will soon be inaugurated”, Mr Governor posited.

Also speaking at the event, state consultant on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof Chinwe Obuaku rejected the recent rating of Osun on climate change, positing that publishing the outcome without engaging the state is a wrong methodology.

The carbon finance expert wondered how the review could be conducted without calling for submissions and direct involvement of those being rated in the review process.

She emphasized that most of the headings for the review did not take into account the reality that most states are starting on different grounds for climate war.

“The administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke largely launched the Osun climate change agenda starting with the creation of the department of climate change, ongoing development of the state climate policy plan, and development of carbon investment templates and portfolios among others. How do you rate us without knowing or asking what we are doing”, the climate expert queried.

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary of Green Growth Africa Sustainability Network, Dr Adedoyin Adeleke, applauded the deep interest of the governor in the climate struggle.

According to him, his group has watched the activities of the state government in the field of climate adaptation and resilience, assuring that his group is prepared for long-term partnership with the Osun State government.

“We are here to commend the state government for its plans and programs in the field of climate change. We seek partnership and collaboration with the state for the implementation of innovative climate projects”, Dr Adedoyin posited.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

.● Set up a Tripartite Actualisation Committee

OSOGBO – 13/07/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun State Government is pursuing a comprehensive upgrade of tourist sites in Osun state including the popular Erin Ijesha Water Falls as part of its comprehensive tourism agenda.

The State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi made the disclosure in response to a recent viral video on the state of Erin Ijesha Water Falls, announcing that the government is implementing a systemic upgrade after decades of neglect by previous administrations.

The Commissioner noted that the tourism infrastructure upgrade plan covers the Osun groove, Owala inland beach resort in Olorunda local Government, Sango Timi Shrine in Ede Local Government, Ayunkunnugba water falls in Oke-Ila Orangun, in Ifedayo local Government and other cultural sites.

On the state of the tourist sites in Osun, particularly Erin Ijesha Water Falls in Oriade local government, Governor Adeleke directed the fast tracking of ongoing renewal initiatives for the site which include the formation of a tripartite committee for the management of the site among others.

Hon Alimi who noted that the entire management of Erin-Ijesha Waterfall site is currently under the purview of Erin Ijesha community said the status quo is meant to ensure localisation and overall local content to boost the local cultural and tourism industry.

The Commissioner further conveyed the directive of the Governor that a tripartite meeting between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment and the leaders of Erin-Ijesa Community be held tomorrow, Wednesday 14th August,2024, to fashion out how to further maintain the environment and come up with an acceptable template that will benefit all interests involved.

“ I want to assure the general public that the Osun State government under Governor Ademola Adeleke has a comprehensive tourism agenda which covers all our cultural and tourism sites. The meeting tomorrow will increase the phase of reforms to satisfy the aspirations of the community and tourism community”, Hon Alimi posited.

He reassured the public that Osun government is passionate about tourism, and has outlined it as one of its five point agenda, noting that the state is open to public private partnership

E-signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi,
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment.

● I will Recommit to People’s Welfare – Erelu Adeleke

OSOGBO – 10/08/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on traditional rulers to deepen unity among their ranks even as he spoke on his plans for the agricultural sector.

The Governor represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon Tola Faseru, made the call at the coronation of the wife of the Governor, Her Excellency, Erelu Ngozi Abeni Adeleke as the Erelu Soludero of Erinmo Ijesa.

The paramount ruler of Erinmoland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Odunayo Michael Ajayi JP, Arowotawaya II, had this Saturday conferred the prestigious title on Mrs Adeleke who is already the Erelu Soludero of Oke Ila in Ifedayo Local Government.

Governor Adeleke expressed heartfelt appreciation to his Royal Highness for conferring this prestigious title on his wife, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, adding that “This is an open demonstration of affection and love for my family and the entire Adeleke dynasty.

“I must congratulate my dear wife for this honour conferred on her and the family. This chieftaincy title symbolises the sustained efforts of our government and the Adeleke family to bring succor to the people of the state. I thank Kabiyesi for honouring my wife. This will propel us to do more for the people of Erinmoijesa and Osun state as a whole”, the Governor posited.

While congratulating the royal father on his 10th coronation anniversary, the State used the opportunity to affirm the importance of royal institutions, submitting that “the contributions of our royal institutions to communal and state development cannot be brushed aside.

“In the turbulent art of governance, our royal fathers provide invaluable counsellings and moral support which steadied the ship of state and facilitated good governance.

“Our government will continue to accord traditional rulers their rightful place in the scheme of things. We will continue to consult and tap into the fountain of wisdom for which our fathers are made of.

“In this collaborative effort for the good of the people, our government will not abandon its responsibility to deliver dividends of democracy and to lift our people out of poverty and under-development.

“I must however plead with our royal fathers to revive and deepen the old spirit of unity across the traditional councils. We must avoid actions and inactions that breed disunity and fragmentation.

“A united traditional council across the local government will strengthen the capacity of our royal fathers to influence government policies. The increasing sign of fragmentation is worrisome and constitutes a threat to the sanctity of our traditional institutions”, Mr Governor advised.

On state governance , Governor Adeleke told the gathering that his government is implementing several initiatives in the agriculture sector.

According to the Governor, “We are specifically pursuing expansion of activities within such sub-sectors as cocoa, cashew and rice value chains. We will support provisions of facilities for paddy rice processing as well as further incentives for farmers in that sector.

“We are extending similar back up to farmers for other cash crops as a deliberate strategy to expand the state economy and deepen the state Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“In the next few days, our government will be unveiling and distributing several farm equipment and inputs including tractors, fertilizers and seedlings. This is a golden era for our farmers. We are determined to raise Osun into an agro-industrial state with excellent infrastructure for economic sustainability”, Governor Adeleke narrated.

I will Recommit to People’s Welfare – Erelu Adeleke

Responding to the coronation, Erelu Ngozi expressed appreciation to the royal father and entire people of Erinmo Ijesha, pledging to redouble her efforts towards development of the town and realization of the aspirations of the young and the old in the state.

“I will push ahead with a vision of an Osun State where every citizen is empowered, embraced and equipped to reach their full potential. I envision a future where compassion, integrity and innovation drive our efforts to create inclusive opportunities for all.

“Together, we will champion education, healthcare and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind. With unity and determination, I will build a legacy of resilience, prosperity and hope for generations to come”, the new Erelu told the gathering.

Erelu Ngozi Abeni Adeleke founded the Esther Adeleke Humanitarian Foundation, an NGO dedicated to providing healthcare services, food aid and education to those in need.

She is affectionately known as “Mummy Triplets” for her unwavering commitment to supporting families blessed with twins and triplets in Osun state. Through her foundation, she is providing care, support and financial assistance to four sets of triplets and three sets of twins and still counting.

The Erelu has earned many honours and awards in recognition of her immeasurable contributions to the well being of children, women and less privileged members of the society.

The event was attended by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Kazeem Akinkeye and his wife, Dr. (Mrs) Balikis Akinleye, wife of the deputy governor, Deaconess Olusola Adewusi, wives of the Osun State House of Assembly members, wives of the Commissioners, wives of the former Local Government caretakers Chairmen and other dignitaries from home and abroad.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has commended the organizers and protesters of the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations in Osun state for suspending the six day old protest, and more importantly for maintaining peace and order during the protest.

OSOGBO – 05/08/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed happiness and solidarity over the peaceful nature of the ongoing protests in Osun state as he assures the protesting groups of his commitment to continuous delivery of good governance.

Expressing delight at the incredible level of patriotism exhibited by the organisers, the state Governor said he was elated at the rejection of efforts by dark forces to hijack the protest for their selfish goals.

“ We heard of consistent upholding of peaceful demonstrations by the organisers even in the face of pressure from various quarters. I was briefed of the refusal of organisers to succumb to evil political forces hell bent on destroying the peace of the state. I commend them for maintaining peace and peacefully airing their views on the state of the nation.

“I charge them to sustain their upholding of peace. All their submissions will be duly received. We will attend to areas that affect us as a state government, and we will take the rest to Mr. President in Abuja. As Mr. President is working hard at the national level, we are complimenting him as the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

”We are redoubling our efforts to address the yearning and aspirations of our people. Within the government, we feel the pain being experienced by our people, and we are working tirelessly to bring succour and good living.

“I again had a meeting with my team handling the food security implementation committee. We are working hard to expand food supply, enhance farmers’ support, moderate food prices, boost food access, and introduce tractorization.

“ I commend security agencies and all stakeholders for working hard to achieve sustained peace in Osun. I thank commanders across the security services for burning the candlelight so that Osun can remain ever peaceful and prosperous “, Mr Governor told team members after the Sunday meeting.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

OSOGBO– 03/08/2024– osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has rejoiced with the Chairman of the People Democratic Party in the state, Hon. Sunday Bisi on the occasion of his birthday.

While describing the ruling party leader as a true democrat, Governor Adeleke in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed noted that the history of Osun PDP will be incomplete without the name and impact of Hon. Sunday Bisi.

He said, “I want to join the whole world to celebrate with the Chairman of our party in Osun, Hon. Sunday Bisi on the occasion of his birthday today.

“Hon Sunday Bisi being the Chairman of the ruling party in Osun has not only displayed the character of a true democrat but also proven himself to be a leader worthy of emulation and when the history of PDP in Osun will be written, his name and impact will not be left behind.

“Today and beyond, I wish him more prosperous years in sound health and mind.

The Governor thereafter urged the party Chairman to keep upholding the tenets of democracy while moving Osun PDP forward.

“Let me use this opportunity to also urge our able Chairman to keep upholding the tenets of democracy and use every one of his intellect to keep moving Osun PDP forward. Once again, I wish him a Happy Birthday”, the Governor added.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

OSOGBO – 01/08/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

In compliance with his administration’s agenda for peoples’ welfare, Governor Ademola Adeleke has paid the October 2022 cooperative deduction inherited from the Gboyega Oyetola’s administration.

Additionally, the State Governor has paid another half salary debt, totaling seven months half salaries debt paid by the current government.

Governor Adeleke inherited billions of naira in pension, cooperative deductions, and half salaries from the governments of both Oyetola and Rauf Aregbesola covering the 12 years of APC government in the state.

Yesterday, the State Government paid the October 2022 cooperative deductions totaling Nine Hundred and Seventy One Million, Eight Hundred and Twenty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eighty Six Naira and Fifty Nine Kobo (N971,823,786.59).

Aside the payment of the deduction, the state government also paid a total sum of Seven Hundred and Sixteen Million, Four Hundred and One Thousand, Two Hundred and Eighty Seven Naira and Thirteen Kobo ( N716,401,287.13) for the seventh half salary payment.

The total paid is One Billion, Six Hundred and Eighty Eight Million, Two Hundred and Twenty Five Thousand, Seventy Three Naira and Seventy Two Kobo. (N1,688,225,073.72).

Commenting on the payment, Governor Adeleke noted that the government is committed to the phased payments of all inherited pension, salary, and deduction debt as part of the cardinal agenda of his administration.

“I reaffirm my total commitment to easing the hardship of workers and residents of our dear state. We are deploying state resources to address the needs of various sectors of society.

“We are doing a lot on soft infrastructure from workers’ welfare to food security and food access. We are attending to students’ needs through bursary payments among others. We are daily implementing measures to attend to the health needs of our senior citizens.

“Our government has successfully combined soft and hard infrastructure. Our infra plan is going ahead with faster progress than many expected. Osun is on the fast lane of achieving a four year plan within a midterm”, Governor Adeleke noted.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

…Says Osun is committed to Responsible Mining.

OSOGBO – 01/08/2024 -osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has reiterated the resolve of his administration to ensure sustainable and secure mining practices in the state.

Senator Adeleke gave this assurance while inaugurating the state Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee headed by Professor Lukman Jimoda in Osogbo.

Addressing the 9-member Committee, Senator Adeleke said the inauguration is a testament to the commitment of the Government to responsible mining and environmental sustainability.

“Your mandate is to ensure adequate security at mining sites, prevent environmental pollution, and promote community development agreements among miners and their host communities” the Governor tasked the Committee.

Governor Adeleke who extended his appreciation to the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake explained that the collaboration between Osun State and the Federal Government is essential for navigating the complexities of mining regulations and ensuring the efficient processing of mining licenses.

In his address, the Chairman of the Osun State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee, Professor Lukman Jimoda who is also the Special Adviser to the Governor of Mineral Resources, promised that the Committee will work tirelessly to justify the confidence reposed in them by the Governor by protecting the interests of both the Federal and Osun State.

He assured the Governor that the Committee would do everything possible to guarantee the protection of the interests of miners and the host communities with zero tolerance for environmental degradation.

Professor Jimoda explained that the inauguration of the committee under the leadership of Senator Adeleke is a positive development for the mining sector, describing it as “a pointer to concerted effort towards fostering a secure, sustainable and collaborative environment that is poised to bring significant economic and social benefits to the state.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

OSOGBO – 01/08/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has called for peace and unity in Nigeria even as he tasked the military and other security services to redouble their efforts in sustaining national stability.

Senator Adeleke made this call when he received the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of The Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu in Osogbo.

The Governor who held hours of closed door sessions with the GOC on sustaining peace and stability emphasized the importance of the military’s support in ensuring that the democratic process remains intact.

The Governor who praised the Nigerian Army for its unwavering respect for democratic institutions, stressed that loyalty is fundamental for the stability of the nation.

Governor Adeleke stated further that in an era marked by anxiety and protection of lives and property, the collaboration between the political class and the security sector becomes indispensable in providing adequate protection for the citizenry.

He told the visiting military delegation that his government has taken all necessary precautions to ensure that Osun remains peaceful without conflicts despite planned nationwide demonstrations.

“ Let me assure you that we have taken all necessary precautions. We just finished a stakeholders’ meeting and we are all resolved to sustain peace and tranquility in our state of the living spring”, the Governor told the GOC and his delegation.

In his address, the GOC 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General Onubogu said his visit to Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke underscores a critical period in Nigeria’s journey towards stability and unity.

According to him, “The visit not only signifies a reaffirmation of the military’s loyalty to democratic principles but also highlights the essential role of the armed forces in maintaining peace during turbulent times.”

He commended Governor Adeleke’s commitment in ensuring that Osun state remains the most peaceful state in the country and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Major General Onubogu emphasized the role of the military in upholding democratic principles and maintaining peace, particularly in handling protests and demonstrations.

He added that the partnership between the Nigerian Army and Osun State government stands as a model for maintaining peace and stability, ensuring that Osun remains a beacon of tranquility within the federation.

Present at the courtesy visit were the Secretary to the OSUN state Government, Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye, Chief of staff to the Governor, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, Chairman Osun People Democratic Party, Hon. Sunday Bisi, Spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Chairman Amotekun Security Outfit, Rtd AIG Olawale Abass and other notable members of the state executive council.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.