Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared the state’s readiness for a transition to an agro-industrial society, supported by ongoing infrastructure upgrades and economic policy frameworks. Speaking at the 60th birthday event of Mrs. Bukola Saraki in France, Governor Adeleke emphasized that his administration is laying the groundwork for sustainable industrial development through strategic investments.
Adeleke highlighted the upcoming Osun Industrial Investment Summit, set to begin this week in Osogbo, as a key platform to showcase the state’s potential. He emphasized that infrastructural improvements, such as rural road construction, inter-city linkages, and flyovers in congested areas, are central to improving Osun’s business environment and attracting investors.
He explained that his administration inherited a massive infrastructure deficit, which had deterred local and foreign investments in the past. By focusing on road connectivity and local content policy, the governor hopes to boost the grassroots economy by using local contractors and materials, thereby keeping capital within the state.
“We are sourcing materials locally and using Osun contractors, ensuring Osun’s money stays in Osun. This approach is strengthening the local economy,” Adeleke said.
Beyond infrastructure, Governor Adeleke detailed efforts to diversify the economy, including the state’s new ICT policy and a tech innovation strategy. He also announced Osun’s plans for the power sector, which include the creation of an electricity regulatory body to oversee power generation and distribution in the state. The governor reiterated that power is a critical component of transforming Osun into an agro-industrial hub.
The administration’s agricultural strategy focuses on revolutionizing the sector through tractor and input distributions and emphasizing value addition through agro-processing for export-oriented growth. The Osun State Agropreneurs Initiative, which will soon be launched, is expected to support agricultural development across all local governments.
Governor Adeleke also touched on the sports and creative industries, announcing the creation of the Osun State Sports Commission to promote the development of sports in the state. The government is also implementing a comprehensive strategy to tap into the cultural, tourism, and entertainment sectors, recognizing their potential to generate revenue and employment.
Additionally, the governor outlined plans for a diaspora housing project and a proposed international airport with a cargo terminal and a free trade zone, which will further boost the state’s investment appeal. He reassured stakeholders that Osun remains the most peaceful state in Nigeria, positioning itself as a hub for agro-industrialization in Southern Nigeria.
Governor Adeleke urged business leaders and investors to participate in the Osun Industrial Investment Summit and explore the numerous opportunities the state offers. The administration is also working to improve social sectors like education, health, and small business support, with ongoing efforts to distribute palliatives and curb market price manipulation.
“We are ready to become the hub of agro-industrialization in Southern Nigeria,” Adeleke concluded, inviting the business community to partner in the state’s economic transformation.
