05/12/2024 – OSOGBO

The Governor of Osun State, Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, today distributed N250 million (N250,000,000) in microcredit cheques to various beneficiaries across the state at the foundation-laying ceremony of the Osun Micro Credit Agency’s office complex. The event took place at the agency’s permanent site in Oranmiyan New Town, behind the State Secretariat, Abeere, Osun State.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, the Governor emphasized the importance of the occasion, describing it as a “new chapter” for the agency, which has been instrumental in providing accessible credit to citizens across the state. The Governor also addressed the long-standing issue of the agency operating from rented premises, calling it unacceptable. He pledged to expedite the completion of the new office complex, assuring that the project would be finished sooner than initially projected. The Medium-Term Sector Strategy (MTSS) had set 2027 as the expected completion date, but Adeleke vowed to fast-track the development using all necessary resources.

“For over a decade, it is disheartening to note that an agency as critical as the Osun Micro Credit Agency has operated from rented premises. This reality is both unacceptable and a reflection of the neglect and complacency we inherited. However, we are here today to rewrite that story and restore hope to this agency and the people it serves,” the Governor stated.

“Our administration is committed to improving the lives of the people of Osun State,” he added, highlighting that the office complex was only one of many projects slated for completion by 2025.

The N250 million funding boost for the Osun Micro Credit Agency includes a N200 million injection into the agency’s working capital, with N50 million specifically allocated for new applicants and beneficiaries. This funding is part of the administration’s broader effort to empower small businesses and drive economic growth in the state.

Addressing the beneficiaries of the microcredit loans, Adeleke urged them to use the funds prudently to grow their businesses and contribute to the state’s economic development. The loans come with favorable repayment terms, offering a 12-month tenor at an annual interest rate of 9%, making it one of the most affordable loan options in the country. The loans are revolving, ensuring that others can access credit as well.

“To the beneficiaries of these funds, I urge you to use the resources wisely to grow your businesses and create lasting value. As you know, these loans are revolving in nature, and timely repayment is essential to ensure others also benefit,” Adeleke stated.

The Governor also encouraged individuals, cooperative groups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the Osun Micro Credit Agency. He assured the people of Osun that his administration is committed to driving the state’s economic growth through these initiatives.

Despite criticism from opposition parties, the Governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue working for the benefit of the people. “The people of Osun have seen the light,” he said, adding that the state’s progress would not be hindered by detractors. He called on the people to continue supporting his government beyond 2026 for sustained growth and development.

Signed:
Kehinde Adeoye,
Special Assistant on Media to the Secretary to the Osun State Government.

PROTOCOLS

It is with gratitude to God and the universe that I warmly welcome you to this commissioning event. This is another key milestone in our administration’s drive to upgrade the capital city of Osun State.

I appreciate the presence of my dear brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, to witness the outcome of good governance in the state of the living spring. Today’s gathering is another manifestation of the strong bond of brotherhood between Oyo and Osun states. Your Excellency, welcome to the cradle of Yoruba race, Osun state.

I must also pay tribute to my brother, former Governor Rauf Aregbesola. His administration started the Osogbo Ring Road project before it was abandoned by the previous government. Today, Ogbeni Aregbesola must be happy at the final completion of the project.

At the inception of our administration, I had promised my God and the people of Osun state that I would not abandon projects inherited from my predecessors. It is my considered view that public projects are public assets which must not be wasted on the altar of political vendetta. I followed my conviction by directing my team to compile a list of all abandoned projects and submit a plan of completion.

Based on the plan of action, our administration has completed several projects across the sectors. In under 100 days, we completed the Osogbo – Ikirun road dualisation with full solar street lights. It has been open to use since then. We expanded the inherited reconstruction of Iwo – Osogbo road to include dualisation of a major internal road inside Iwo. We completed several abandoned projects inside Osun State University including the one at Isale Osun which was neglected for almost eleven years.

Aside from our resolve to complete inherited projects, the road we are about to commission has important significance for the economic well being and safety of our people. Before our assumption of office, we had reports of multiple fatal accidents and traffic gridlock on this road. Many voters actually demanded completion of the road during our electioneering campaign.

I thank God that today we fulfill our promises to the people of our dear State. The completion of the dualisation within record time has expanded economic growth of the capital city. It will save our people from untimely death and injuries.

I must however advise against reckless driving and breaching of driving safety protocols. We are recording increasing accidents on many freshly completed roads due to over – speeding and one way driving. I appeal to road users to be safety conscious.

I am therefore directing security agencies and road safety authorities to enforce safety codes on our brand new roads. The Ministry of Works should also consider the possibility of constructing speed breakers where necessary. We must secure our people as we are providing better roads and services across the sectors.

As I earlier promised our people, the commissioning of several completed projects continues to mark our two years in office. From over 150 kilometers of completed roads, the commissioning crew moves to Iresi town next week to be followed by other towns.

I reassure Osun people that our administration will not relent in our desire to satisfy their developmental needs. We will not relent until our infrastructure is fixed and until collective prosperity is achieved in our dear state.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honour to invite my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde to commission this completed dualisation project.

I thank you for listening.

HE, GOVERNOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE,
DECEMBER 4TH, 2024.

OSOGBO – 16/11/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on world leaders to recommit to immediate action to stem the mounting negative consequences of climate change, listing several steps the subnational state of Osun has taken on the subject.

Addressing COP29 side event in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Governor represented by the state’s consultant on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof Chinwe Obuaku recalled the various technical reports from several credible agencies which pointed to a heightening negative impact of climate change, noting that the time is now for remediation, adaptation and resilience actions to save the planet.

Governor Adeleke extended hands of collaboration to world leaders as he noted that “the challenges of climate change are global while our solutions can be local, scalable, and impactful.

“Let us continue to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and invest in sustainable futures for all. Together, we can create a world where art, innovation, and environmental stewardship thrive side by side—a world where waste becomes wealth and resilience becomes a shared legacy”, the Governor canvassed.

The Governor spoke further at the event: “In Osun State, we are on a transformative journey toward climate resilience, sustainability, and economic empowerment. Aligned with the thematic areas of COP29, our efforts focus on adaptation, mitigation, circular economy, and inclusive development:

“Adaptation: Through our Climate Action Plan (CAP), we are equipping all sectors with the tools to assess emissions and vulnerabilities. Focal desk officers are tracking greenhouse gas data across agriculture, water, infrastructure, and health, ensuring targeted and actionable strategies;

“Circular Economy: Our state is pioneering waste-to-wealth initiatives by engaging both formal and informal players. Through waste characterization studies and upcoming recycling hubs, we are creating economic opportunities while protecting the environment;

“Nature-Based Solutions: We are reclaiming degraded lands, such as the Onibueja dump site, where reforestation and creative reuse of waste are transforming challenges into opportunities. Our Ago-Owu Forest project further demonstrates our commitment to ecosystem restoration;

“Renewable Energy Transition: Solar mini-grids, solar farms, solar powered boreholes, solar street lights, clean cooking stoves, and partnerships with international stakeholders are ensuring a just and inclusive clean energy future;

“Inclusive Development: By mobilizing women, youth, and local communities, we are creating a robust grassroots movement for climate action”, the Governor noted.

He commended Mr. Dotun Popoola’s remarkable exhibition, Reclaimed Beauty, exemplified the spirit of innovation and resilience that drives Osun State.

“His sculptures—crafted from recycled metal and discarded materials from our dumpsites—tell the story of turning waste into wonder, and challenges into opportunities. His work aligns seamlessly with our circular economy goals, emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage.

“I commend the Heydar Aliyev Center for hosting this extraordinary event. It showcases the intersection of art, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment—a vision we deeply embrace in Osun State” , the Governor concluded.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor

OSOGBO- 12/11/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state has received high powered military delegation in preparation for the burial of late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, describing planned state burial for the deceased as right and fitting.

Receiving General Kamal Ishola Yusuf who led other seven serving Generals in his office, Governor Adeleke described the late Army Chief as a bright star of Osun and Nigeria that dimmed too early, noting that his service to the fatherland would never be forgotten.

The Governor commended the decision of President Bola Tinubu to grant the late army chief a state burial and he also applauded the declaration by the army delegation that all the four community projects started by the deceased would be completed.

“I thank Mr President for approving state burial for our late brother. We also appreciate the message from the army representative that ongoing community projects initiated by General Lagbaja at Ilobu, Ifon and Erin Osun would be completed. We will follow up on this”, the Governor pledged.

At the palace of Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, Governor Adeleke pleaded with community leaders to ensure sustainance of peace as a mark of honour for the transition of Lt. General Lagbaja.

“Anytime we speak, the late General always calls for peace among his people. His message even at death is that the people of Ilobu and Ifon should live in peace and unity.

“Let us honour the memory of our late brother and maintain peace. We cannot afford any bloodshed again. It is time to see each other as one and push for common development of our local government and state”, the Governor told the king and community leaders.

Earlier, the team leader, General Yusuf told the state Governor that he brought condolence letter from the military leadership to the Governor and also inform the state leadership of the burial plan for the late General.

He described late Lagbaja as a leader who lead from the front and who made huge impacts within his short term as Army Chief.

The Governor accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adwwusi; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Kazeem Akinleye and members of the State Executive Council later led the military team to the Lagbaja family where prayers were said for the repose of his soul.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

…DIRECTS FLAGS TO FLY HALF MAST, OPENS CONDOLENCE REGISTERS

Osogbo 7/11/2024- osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared three days mourning for the late Chief of Army Staff of the federation, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The State government also directed that half mast flags should be flown in the state during the same period.

This was stated in the release by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, who disclosed that Condolence Registers has also been opened at the government house and Governor’s office for the condolence messages of the people of Osun.

According to the information Commissioner, the death of the late COAS is devastating, a collosal loss to humanity and the nation, and we can’t forget him.

The government is sad at this irreparable loss of one of the Glory of Osun state, and we particularly condole with the Lagbaja family of Ilobu, the Olobu of Ilobu and everyone.

The mourning period is to start today Thursday November 7, 2024 and end on Saturday 9th, while the Condolence Register is for people to pen down their memories of him, for the immortality of the late COAS, who died at age 56.

Once again, we pray God repose the soul of late Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, and grant him Aljanna Firdaus Ameen.

E-Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi
Commissioner for Information
And Public Enlightenment

This is to inform motorists, road users and the general public that the Old garage to Okefia road in Osogbo will be closed (for one week) between 12noon of Friday, 8th to 12noon of Thursday 14th November, 2024 to allow for the smooth launching of beams on the Okefia Fly-Over and completion of the ongoing construction work on the Old garage to Okefia road.

Motorists and other road users are therefore advised to find alternative routes to their various destinations during the period of the closure.

Meanwhile, traffic officers such as the F.R.S.C and O-TRAM will be on ground to direct traffic.

Thank you for your usual cooperation.

Announcer:
Engr. Bashir Bello
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.

• CONDOLE PRESIDENT TINUBU, THE ARMED FORCES, ILOBU PEOPLE AND FAMILY

OSOGBO – 06/11/2024 – Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adelele has described as a sad loss the untimely exit of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoheed Lagbaja, calling his transition “a huge misfortune”

“A huge misfortune has befallen the people of Osun State, the Nigerian army and the great Lagbaja family of Ilobu. We lost a rare breed, a gentleman and a true patriot to the cold hand of death.

“Our late brother has a big vision of operational reforms for the Nigerian Army. He launched out and commenced the implementation of root and branch reform of the Nigerian Army. Within his short stint in office, he enforced professionalism and battled terrorists and bandits with terrifying fierceness.

“Our late brother was a very hardworking officer, a true workaholic, a fierce soldier, a replica of the traditional army officer with an ambitious plan for modernization and integration of the Nigerian Army.

“In my last encounter with him, he exuded hope and aspirations of a better Nigeria with the military as a stabilizer and unifier of the federation. In late General Lagbaja, we had a great military leader with the poise, the confidence and the firmness to realize the vision of a new Nigerian Army.

“Unfortunately, the end came suddenly. We surrendered to the will of the Almighty creator. I commiserate with the Commander – in- Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces, my people of Ilobu and the great Lagbaja family.

“We mourn together on this sad occasion. On behalf of the people and Government of Osun state, we extend commiseration to Mrs Mariya Lagbaja and the two children .”, Governor Adeleke noted in a statement he personally signed.

Signed:
HE, SENATOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE,
EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF OSUN OSUN STATE

OSOGBO – 31/10/2024 – osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke while chairing the Treasury Board meeting for the 2025 budget, has issued a strong admonition to Ministries and Agencies to sustain budget performance on all fronts.

Members of the Treasury Board include the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Kazeem Akinleye; Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina; Attoney General/HCJustice and HC Finance; the Accountant General; Chairman of State Internal Revenue Service among others.

The Governor scrutinised proposals of various Agencies submitted through the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

The State Governor noted that presentations by the agencies are encouraging but called for a more innovative approach to Revenue and Expenditure process and practice in line with the fiscal procedures and extent laws.

According to the State Governor, the real value of federation allocations to the state has dwindled despite the slight increase in the nominal value but to have a sustainable budget performance for the good of the citizens, political heads and accounting officers should think out of the box by emphasizing high priority projects and programmes.

“I task heads of ministries and agencies to focus on high priority projects. The resources are limited, and our needs are much. So we have to balance both ends by avoiding frivolous programmes and emphasizing areas promoting the five point agenda of this administration.

“You are to conduct full due diligence on your various sectors and programmes. Revenue generation must be driven with vigour but with a human face. Value for money is also key in state expenditure”, the State Governor charged the various ministries and agencies led by the Commissioners and Special Advisers.

Earlier in his presentation, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Moruf Ademola Adeleke assured that the report of the Treasury Board will be submitted to the State Executive Council for approval as a draft budget for presentation to the State Assembly.

He informed the Governor and other state officials that the budgetary process is on schedule to meet the timeline for final processing and approval by both the State Executive Council and the House of Assembly.

Sectors already covered by the Treasury Board meetings include Education, Solid minerals and infrastructure sectors. The board sitting continues today with the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs Yetunde Esan, coordinating the process

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

OSOGBO – 30/10/2024 -osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State Government has assured people of Osogbo Land that the dispute over the land belonging to Osogbo Technical College will be resolved in favour of the capital city even as it clarified that the dispute was inherited from the previous administration.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the state government narrated that Governor Ademola Adeleke met a legal dispute over the land when he assumed office in 2022, informing the public that a consent Judgment ceding the land to land owners was on ground as at 2022.

The Commissioner narrated that the government was surprised that a school land could be returned to land owners when the school is still in existence and in need of such landed properties.

He explained that the government in its push to reclaim public land re-acquired the land, noting however that the subject is still in court which even sat on the matter yesterday.

“The government however wishes to state that only the best interest of Osogbo people must prevail in this matter. The government reassures Osogbo people that only their wishes will be supported and nothing will be done to negatively affect the communal interest of the state capital”, the Commissioner noted.

According to Oluomo Alimi, the government of Governor Ademola Adeleke is always for the interest of Osogbo in particular and Osun people in general, assuring that securing the disputed land for public good is paramount to the state leadership.

Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi,
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment.

By Sarafa Ibrahim

On Monday, something remarkable that will change the trajectory of Osun finances forever happened. The Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed announced that Thor Exploration Limited, the parent company of Segilola Gold Project, has conceded to the plank of the Osun State Government dispute with it and that Governor Ademola Adeleke will soon be “hosting the federal meditation team for the formal presentation of the share certificate to the state government..”

It is a cheering news because this is a victory not just for today but also the future. However, this victory did not come easy, and in fact, was possible basically because of the character of Governor Adeleke, who chooses not his personal benefit, but the collective interest of the entirety of Osun people. This was the highlight of the Governor’s message that was conveyed by Mallam Rasheed.

“Our dedication not to do under the table deal with Thors Explorations has paid off. From the beginning, I said I don’t want gold bars for myself or my family, I want Osun shares as asset of the state and that the taxes be paid into her treasury,” Governor Adeleke noted. What Governor Adeleke clearly indicated, is unusual, and indeed, will leave many, especially those who are conversant with Nigerian politicians attitude to collective interest of the people, speechless.

But the thing with Governor Adeleke is that, he is different, and this truth about him continues to manifest in all his conducts since assuming office nearly two years ago. While some other interest holders settled for “cash and smelter during the acquisition by Thors”, Governor Adeleke chose the side of the people, fighting fiercely to ensure that Osun is not cheated of what actually belongs to it.

That was a resolve from Governor Adeleke and a moment, I tried to picture what the scenario would have been if someone other than him is seating in the state’s top seat at a time like this. Just imagine a Governor who prioritizes personal benefit was presented with an opportunity to look the other way and maneuver the system to fill his own pocket at the detriment of the people.

Your guess is as good as mine. Segilola Gold Project is a multi-billion investment and a 5% stake is a whole lot, and the benefit will extend beyond the administration of Governor Adeleke. This is why I could not understand what the main opposition, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, was thinking when it chose the side of a firm that tries to deny Osun what belongs to it.

This can never be politics because what Governor was fighting for was not for himself but the Osun people. Infact, the question that must agitate minds would be that what could the outcome had been if Governor Adeleke was not the Governor. And, if the past should be the guide, the outcome is better not imagined because it will be unpleasant.

By all measures, Governor Adeleke has done well and history will be kind to him. This is not just because he retrieved Osun shares in Segilola Gold Project, but also demonstrating the immense benefits that comes with having the right leadership. Governor Adeleke did not just press for Osun to get its due financial entitlements from the firm, he was critical about pollution caused by mining activities, which undermines the environment.

“We will submit our environmental inspection report. We will show the world that even a billion dollar cannot achieve the remediation and rehabilitation of our damaged environment. It is actually worrisome that an internationally quoted mining company will neglect and attempt to evade the care for environment it violated,” Governor Adeleke noted.

For quite sometime now, there has been concerns on the environmental impact that the operation of Segilola Gold Project has on the people. In a 2022 report, Aljazeera provided an idea on how deep the problem is, quoting Anthony Adejuwon, head of Osogbo-based civic advocacy group Urban Alert as noting that “In Osun, the contamination is through water which flows through communities with over two million people.” The paper added that separate physiochemical test conducted by it and Urban Alert on water samples on the area revealed the presence of high levels of heavy materials.

By making the protection of the environment a core of his objective, Governor Adeleke is making sure that natural resources doesn’t turn to harm the people. That is the purpose of leadership and Governor Adeleke is showing not to only understand this, but also working towards that direction.

● Sarafa Ibrahim is a Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Print Media and writes from Osogbo, Osun State