The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has declared that his administration embodies the ideals of progressive governance, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the late Premier of the Western Region.
Speaking in Osogbo on Tuesday while receiving the leadership of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, led by its Chairman, Mr. ‘Bimbo Ashiru, Governor Adeleke described his government as the “true progressives.”
He said his passion for development is largely influenced by the visionary leadership of Awolowo and his administration during Nigeria’s First Republic.
According to the governor, his family has strong roots in the Awoist philosophy, and that heritage shapes the approach of his administration. “The late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his crop of administrators of those days are legendary figures. They are men and women who saw the future and attempted to create the future in the present. They are my inspiration, especially as my family has strong roots in the Awoist philosophy,” Adeleke said.
He noted that just like Awolowo’s cabinet, his administration had in less than two years launched several large-scale projects considered too ambitious by critics. These include road dualisation projects, flyover constructions, school and hospital upgrades, and expanded water schemes across Osun State.
“When you are talking of progressive politics, don’t look any further. We are the true progressives. We are building people and society. We are the true definition of pro-people leadership as we attend to the direct and the immediate needs of the people,” he said.
On the relationship with Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s full support for the group’s activities and future plans. He noted the government’s readiness to examine new investment areas and increase Osun’s equity stake in the conglomerate.
“We will take necessary action for Osun to take her rightful place in terms of equity participation, among others. Oodua Group is a legacy corporation which reminds us of innovation in state leadership,” the governor said.
He added that the achievements of First Republic leaders constantly push him to do more for Osun. “Anytime I read of all the achievements of our first republic leadership, I am challenged as a governor to do more for my state,” he added.
During the visit, Mr. Ashiru praised Adeleke’s leadership, noting that the group came to strengthen its partnership with the Osun government. He spoke of plans to develop the state’s solid mineral sector through a new company, SouthWest Resources Limited (SWRL), and asked for the state’s assistance with mining licences and regulatory support.
“We believe that with your backing, we can catalyse responsible mining operations that will not only generate significant revenue for the state but also create meaningful employment opportunities for our people while ensuring strict adherence to environmental and social standards,” Ashiru said.
He also expressed the group’s interest in developing Osun’s agricultural sector, requesting land allocation to support commercial farming and agribusiness investments.
