Gov Adeleke Presides Over Osun Cabinet Meeting, Unveils New Directives
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke led a key meeting on Friday. It was a marathon session of the State Executive Council. The event took place at the Government House in Osogbo. The meeting ran late into the night. During it, the governor reviewed state policies. He also issued fresh directives to ministries and agencies. This comes amid ongoing efforts to boost development in Osun. The directives cover tech, agriculture, sports, and more. They aim to speed up projects and align with the state’s goals. Citizens have given high marks to the government’s work so far.
Background on the Meeting
Governor Adeleke chairs these cabinet meetings regularly. They help track progress across sectors. This one focused on appraisals. The governor noted strong citizen approval. He said, “We must congratulate ourselves on the series of endorsements and approval rallies and declarations from various interest groups in the state. Our job performance rating is at a very high level and our government is rated very high by all categories of Osun people.”
The session lasted hours. It ended deep into the night. Officials discussed developments in key areas. They set new targets for implementation. This fits Adeleke’s style. He often pushes for quick action. Since taking office in 2022, his administration has focused on infrastructure and welfare. Recent events, like communal peace efforts and budget approvals, set the stage for this meeting.
Osun faces challenges like economic pressures and local disputes. But Adeleke highlighted positives. He pointed to gains in climate change initiatives. These have drawn interest from the federal government and donors. The meeting aimed to build on that momentum.
Key Directives Unveiled
The governor issued several new orders. Each targets a specific sector. They show a push for innovation and growth. Here’s a breakdown of the main ones.
Tech and Innovation Push
One big focus was technology. Adeleke tasked the Ministry of Science and Innovation with key actions. They must fast-track the State ICT Policy. They also need to roll out the Tech Innovation Policy. A roadmap for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain is required soon.
He praised the Imole Wifi Initiative. This project provides free WiFi in public spots. The governor wants Osun to become a tech-driven state. “Position Osun as a tech-driven state,” he urged. This aligns with global trends. AI and Blockchain can improve services like governance and business. Osun hopes to attract investments this way.
Experts say this is timely. Nigeria’s tech sector is booming. States like Osun can benefit from digital tools. The directive includes timelines. Ministries must report progress regularly.
Agriculture and Youth Empowerment
Agriculture got a boost too. Adeleke ordered the immediate rollout of the Statewide Youth Agropreneurship Project. This program started in Oriade Local Government Area. Now, it expands to all 30 local governments.
The project trains young people in farming. It provides tools and funding. The goal is to create jobs and food security. Youth unemployment is high in Nigeria. This initiative targets that issue. Adeleke wants it implemented fast. He said it would empower the next generation.
Local farmers welcome this. It builds on earlier efforts. Osun’s fertile land suits crops like cocoa and yam. The project could increase output. It also promotes modern farming techniques.
Sports Development Initiatives
Sports was another highlight. The governor called for urgent work on new bills. These include the Osun Sports Commission Bill. There’s also the Police Trust Fund Bill and the Osun Sports Development Fund Bill.
He urged collaboration with the House of Assembly. This means lawmakers must prioritize these. Sports can unite people and boost health. Osun has talent in football and athletics. The funds would support training and facilities.
Adeleke sees sports as key to youth engagement. Past events like the National Sports Festival show potential. These directives aim to make Osun a sports hub in the Southwest.
Local Government and Youth Corps Review
The local government crisis was addressed. Adeleke asked the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) members to prepare documents. These should align with the state agenda. The Chief of Staff and Ministry of Budget will lead this.
He also ordered a review of the Imole Youth Corps. This scheme helps young graduates gain skills. The review ensures it meets goals. Quality delivery is key. Adeleke wants better outcomes for participants.
Local governments handle services like roads and health. Aligning them with state plans avoids conflicts. This directive promotes harmony. It could improve service delivery in rural areas.
Climate Change and Other Gains
The governor hailed progress in climate change. Osun’s initiatives attract attention. Other states, the federal government, and international donors are watching. He encouraged continued efforts.
This includes green projects like tree planting and waste management. Adeleke sees it as a model for Nigeria. The meeting noted partnerships forming. Funding could flow in soon.
Governor Adeleke’s Leadership Style
Ademola Adeleke is known for hands-on governance. As a senator before, he understands policy. His administration emphasizes transparency. Recent actions, like budget approvals and peace resolutions, show this.
In March 2025, he tackled communal violence in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun. He ordered relief for displaced people. Security chiefs adopted tough measures. This meeting continues that proactive approach.
Adeleke often speaks of “Imole” – his administration’s light theme. It symbolizes hope and progress. He vows not to be distracted. In a March address, he said, “I won’t be distracted from good governance.” Political rumors, like defection talks, don’t sway him. PDP leaders backed him in July.
In September, he called for neutral security in politics. Osun is President Tinubu’s home state. He wants peace, not battles.
Impact on Osun State
These directives could transform Osun. Tech rollout means better jobs in IT. Agriculture expansion fights hunger. Sports bills create opportunities for youth.
Economically, AI and Blockchain attract investors. Youth projects reduce migration to cities. Climate efforts bring funds. Local alignment improves grassroots development.
Challenges remain. Implementation needs funding. The 2025 budget, approved in November 2024, totals N390 billion. Soft infrastructure, like education and health, gets focus in 2025.
Citizens react positively. Rallies show support. Workers appreciate efforts. But some want faster results on roads and power.
Public Reactions and Expert Views
Osun people praise the governor. Social media buzzes with approval. One tweet said, “Adeleke is delivering!” Groups like unions hold rallies.
Experts see promise. A policy analyst noted, “Tech directives position Osun for future growth.” But they warn of execution hurdles.
Opposition, like APC, criticizes past records. Adeleke’s team counters with facts. Transparency in budgeting helps build trust.
Future Outlook
These directives set the tone for late 2025. Ministries must act soon. Adeleke plans more meetings to monitor. Osun aims for sustainable development.
With elections nearing, performance matters. Adeleke’s focus on people could strengthen his base. International ties, like UK investments, add boost.
In conclusion, this cabinet meeting shows Adeleke’s commitment. New directives cover vital areas. They promise progress for Osun. Watch for implementations in coming months. The state looks set for brighter days under Imole.