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 reaffirmed the determination of his administration to reform and expand the creative sector of the state economy covering tourism, entertainment and craft sub-sectors.
The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye made the pledge at the grand finale of the 2024 Osun Osogbo festival held at the Osun Osogbo groove.
“Our Government is reforming and expanding various sectors of the economy. The creative industry is receiving special attention because of its potential as employers of labour and a booster of internally generated revenue.
“We are supporting the private sector as the driver of the creative sector expansion agenda. This will speed up the rejuvenation of the sector.
“We have huge potentials to tap into in the tourism sector. Osun is the cradle of Yoruba race, the host of key Yoruba cultural assets. We are not relenting in our plans to make Osun the first tourism destination within and outside the federation.
“We are forging ahead with our support for the upgrade of the Osun Osogbo groove. Last year, we supported the organiser and managers of the site with rehabilitation of the arena. We backed up the cleaning of the stream. We are now looking at the rehabilitation of the internal roads within the groove”, the Governor noted in his address.
He congratulated the Ataoja of Osogbo Land for another successful hosting of the Osun Osogbo festival, expressing delight that annually, the event is attaining new heights in term.of planning and delivery.
“Our best wishes to all adherents of the Osun Osogbo at home and abroad. We will continue to support all cultural festivals as a tool for local development and preservation of our tradition and culture”, the Governor added.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed Spokesperson to the Governor
The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has rejoiced with a former House Speaker in the state, Rt. Hon. Najeem Folasayo Salam, on the auspicious occasion of his birthday, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the progress of Osun state.
The Governor hails Rt. Hon. Salam as an admirable public figure given his dedication to public good, noting that his approach to governance, particularly in the eight years he presided over the state’s legislature, underscores the premium he placed on the well-being of the people.
Governor Adeleke acknowledges the Ejigbo-born politician’s ability to bring people together, foster bipartisan cooperation, and manage ideologies, saying the celebrant’s passion to impact lives has earned him respect among friends and critics.
“I join family, friends and well-wishers to celebrate a former Speaker in Osun state, Rt. Hon. Najeem Folasayo Salam, on the auspicious occasion of his birthday. Rt. Hon. Salam is a politician who has impressed on anyone who pays attention that leadership is about the people,” the Governor noted in a congratulatory message.
“As Speaker, you upheld the value of the institution and guided the House through challenging and triumphant moments, delivering important legislations that positively impacted the state. On this occasion of your birthday, I honour the depth of your service, just as I like to appreciate your sincere interest in the progress of this state,” he said.
The Governor prayed for God’s continued grace over him as he aged on, while impressing on him to sustain contributions to the progress of Osun state in whatever capacity he found himself now or in the future.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor
The project committee led by the Special Adviser on Public Health, Dr Adekunle Akindele, conducted project inspection to Odesan PHC, Oke-Owena, and Fayemi Ikija PHC, Ifetedo in Ife South local government area of the state
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.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has revealed that Imole Youth Corps, a youth empowerment scheme of his administration will soon be unveiled.
The Governor who spoke on Tuesday at the Stakeholders meeting of the Osun state chapter of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), at the Government House in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital.
Governor Adeleke also revealed that the EndBadGovernance nationwide protest which started few days ago has ended in Osun after a government delegation met and addressed the protesters, promising that the demands will be submitted to the President.
“I assure you, your government is working to deliver on out electoral promises. More good things are coming. Your government is doing a lot to bring relief to our people.
“We Just paid bursary to students; We have disbursed almost 4billion naira to cooperative bodies in Osun; We are building several roads and bridges; We Just paid almost 2billion for half salary and cooperative deductions; We are renovating health centre and educational facilities; We will soon announce the take off of Imole Youth Corps; New teachers will soon be announced”, the Governor noted.
Speaking earlier on the affairs of the ruling party, Governor Adeleke appealed to party members to remain united and never allow our issues to degenerate adding that the PDP must remain one united family.
“My only appeal to us is that we must remain united. We should never allow our issues to degenerate. We must remain one united family.
“We all know that this local government election is key for our 2026 governorship election. We must not allow personal interest to supercede the general interest of the party.
“I task us to remember that we have a wounded opposition that is desperately seeking to destroy the state. We should not give them ammunition to use against us.
“We must ensure party discipline. We must abide by decisions of the party leadership. That is the way to strengthen the party and enhances our chance to win elections”, the Governor added.
Addressing party members earlier on the forthcoming local government elections, Chairman of the party, Hon Sunday Bisi noted that there will be no imposition of candidates adding the party will only release guidelines for each local government to go and elect candidates of their choice.
“Let me take this opportunity to tell you all that there will be no imposition of candidates. We have issued guidelines for each local government to go and decide who their candidates will be.
“I can assure you that our resolve as a party is to give a level playing ground to every member of the party who is interested in being either Chairman or Councillor.
“Let me however advise you all that issues of our party should not be taken to your social media pages and henceforth we will begin to monitor and may sanction any party member who fails to comply”, he noted.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed Spokesperson to the Governor
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.
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.
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.