As Osun State heralds the year 2025, Governor Ademola Adeleke delivered a heartfelt New Year address to the residents of the state, emphasising progress, unity, and a renewed commitment to development.
The speech, which reflected on the achievements of the past year and outlined priorities for 2025, was both inspiring and forward-looking.
Governor Adeleke underscored the importance of inclusive governance, infrastructural development, and economic empowerment in his vision for the state.
The address began with a reflection on 2024, acknowledging the triumphs and trials that shaped the year.
Governor Adeleke celebrated the successes of Osun State, ranging from infrastructural advancements to accolades in education and healthcare. He also expressed gratitude to the people of Osun for their support and commitment to the state’s growth.
In his forward-looking statements, the governor highlighted plans to build on previous successes while tackling lingering challenges. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring a better quality of life for all Osun residents. His message resonated with hope, determination, and a pledge to prioritize the welfare of the people.
Here are the 10 key points from Governor Adeleke’s New Year message:
Governor Adeleke began his speech by reflecting on the past year, offering prayers for the departed, and celebrating the new lives and unions formed in 2024. He acknowledged the challenges faced and expressed gratitude for the collective resilience of the people of Osun.
He highlighted the state’s achievements, including awards and recognitions such as Osun winning the global school competition debate in Malaysia and being ranked first in access to primary healthcare in the Southwest. These successes, he said, were a testament to good governance and the collaborative efforts of Osun residents.
Furthermore, Governor Adeleke praised the people for their steadfast support, which has been the driving force behind the state’s progress. He urged everyone to embrace the new year with renewed vigor and a shared commitment to development.
The governor proudly recounted his administration’s strides in infrastructure, describing Osun as a “giant construction site.” Over 150 kilometers of roads were rehabilitated, more than 100 schools were upgraded, and 200 health centers were refurbished. Additionally, 332 local water facilities were provided, alongside 300 community projects completed across the state.
He emphasised the significance of these projects in reducing the state’s infrastructure deficit, promising to sustain and expand these efforts in 2025. Governor Adeleke also noted that the infrastructural developments were funded without borrowing, showcasing fiscal responsibility.
Governor Adeleke highlighted various economic initiatives designed to empower artisans, local businesses, and young people. He mentioned the cooperative loan scheme benefiting all 332 political wards in Osun and the local content policy ensuring that Osun’s resources circulate within the state.
He also spoke about the agropreneur project launched to engage youth in agriculture, supported by the purchase of new tractors—a milestone achievement after over a decade. These programs, he said, are crucial in creating jobs and boosting the state’s economy.
In education, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding access to higher education. He praised the ongoing development of Osun State University and the growth of the University of Ilesa. The establishment of the Ijesha Technical Institute within the university was also announced as part of efforts to advance technical education.
He described these initiatives as essential to equipping young people with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive world. Additionally, he reiterated the state’s commitment to bursary programs and other forms of support for students.
READ ALSO: 2025: Adeleke Promises Improved Citizens Welfare, More Infrastructure
The governor expressed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, highlighting the consistent payment of pensions and gratuities. He also mentioned the free medical lifeline program, which ensures that retirees have access to quality healthcare services.
This focus on senior citizens, he noted, reflects the state government’s dedication to inclusivity and care for all demographics. Governor Adeleke pledged to continue prioritizing the well-being of the elderly in 2025.
Governor Adeleke shared a touching story of a worker who expressed gratitude for the payment of the new minimum wage, describing the moment as a testament to the administration’s pro-worker policies. He assured workers that their welfare would remain a top priority.
The governor also highlighted the administration’s efforts to ensure prompt salary payments and other benefits, emphasizing that the government’s pro-worker stance is aimed at fostering a motivated and productive workforce.
In 2024, Osun witnessed significant progress in improving its investment climate. The state launched a tax harmonization project and introduced a 45-day processing window for Certificates of Occupancy. Governor Adeleke also hosted an industrial investment summit that attracted stakeholders from across the country.
He expressed optimism that these reforms would attract more investors to the state, boosting economic growth and creating employment opportunities. The digital economy agenda, he added, would also remain a priority in 2025.
Governor Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He highlighted the adoption of the Freedom of Information Act, which has allowed residents to access information on government activities.
He called on all stakeholders, including the opposition, to join hands in building a better Osun, emphasizing that the state’s development is a collective responsibility.
The governor announced plans to intensify efforts on soft infrastructure, including healthcare. He emphasized the importance of complementing physical infrastructure with initiatives that promote the well-being of citizens.
This includes strengthening primary healthcare systems, expanding free medical programs, and investing in preventive healthcare measures.
Governor Adeleke concluded his address by reaffirming his dedication to responsive and compassionate governance. He promised to continue prioritizing the welfare of the people, ensuring that all policies and programs are deeply rooted in the needs of Osun residents.
As the state steps into 2025, the governor’s address serves as a blueprint for a year of progress and hope, driven by inclusive governance and a commitment to the collective good
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
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