Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has pledged a renewed focus on soft infrastructure for the 2025 fiscal year, following two years of extensive infrastructural development across the state.
The governor made this commitment during his New Year address to the people of Osun, where he outlined his administration's plans and achievements.
“This new year will witness extensive implementation of soft infrastructure,” Adeleke said. “The goal is to ensure that good roads are complemented by strong bodies, strong citizens, and residents.”
The governor assured residents of his continued dedication to completing all ongoing projects and executing new initiatives outlined in the 2025 budget. "I will remain, as always, a responsive, listening, and compassionate governor, motivated solely by the well-being of the good people of Osun State," Adeleke affirmed.
Highlighting his administration's commitment to transparency, Adeleke said: "In the last one year, we received and processed several Freedom of Information requests. We ensured access to information as a transparent and accountable government." He also noted that his administration has funded projects solely from state resources, including internally generated revenue and federal allocations, without borrowing or accessing security votes.
The governor extended an olive branch to opposition parties, urging collaboration for the state's progress. “I call on those seeking specific data on government programmes to take advantage of the Freedom of Information Act. Specifically, I urge the opposition to join the state government as we turn the fortune of our state for the better. We are all stakeholders,” he said.
Governor Adeleke detailed his administration's achievements, emphasizing infrastructure development and inclusive governance.
“We faithfully implemented our infrastructure agenda,” he said. “We rehabilitated over 150 kilometers of roads, upgraded more than 100 schools, refurbished 200 health centers, and provided over 332 local water facilities. Osun is now a giant construction site.”
The governor also highlighted progress in agriculture, education, and youth empowerment. “We launched the agropreneur project, purchased tractors after over a decade, and introduced bursary programs for students. Our financial empowerment schemes have reached all 332 political wards,” he said.
Adeleke reiterated his administration's pro-worker policies, including the implementation of the new minimum wage. "Just last night, a worker called me, overwhelmed with joy upon receiving his payment alert. It was an emotional moment," he shared.
For senior citizens, the governor noted that his administration continues to prioritize the payment of pensions and gratuities while funding free medical services for retirees. "We use state instruments to ensure retired workers enjoy their well-deserved rest," he added.
The governor spoke about efforts to improve the state's investment climate, including tax harmonization and a streamlined process for issuing Certificates of Occupancy. He also highlighted educational advancements, such as the growth of Osun State University and plans for establishing the Ijesha Technical Institute.
In 2024, Osun State achieved significant milestones, Adeleke revealed. “Our students won a global school competition in Malaysia, and Osun emerged first in access to primary healthcare in the South West. I was also honored as Governor of the Year 2024. These achievements reflect collective efforts and good governance,” he said.
As Osun enters 2025, Adeleke acknowledged existing challenges but expressed optimism about collaborative solutions. "I look forward to working with the people of Osun for sustainable progress," he concluded.

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