Adeleke’s Record Speaks Loudly: Why Osun Should Renew His Mandate -By Adewole Kehinde

Leadership is best measured not by promises made during campaigns but by the tangible impact of governance on the lives of the people. Since assuming office as Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has demonstrated a commitment to people-oriented governance that has continued to earn the admiration of many residents across the state.

His administration has been widely perceived to have pursued visible governance initiatives in infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, healthcare, agriculture, technology, and social services. Supporters of the administration believe these efforts reflect a government deliberately responding to the needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens.

One of the most remarkable achievements of Governor Adeleke’s administration is the provision of portable borehole water across the state. Through the implementation of potable water projects in each of the 333 wards in Osun State, thousands of residents now enjoy improved access to clean and safe drinking water. This intervention has significantly reduced the burden on rural communities and improved public health outcomes.

The administration has also made substantial investments in road infrastructure. Across Osun State, over 20 kilometres of roads have been constructed and rehabilitated, while major road projects that had been abandoned for years have been revived. Of particular significance is the resumption of the Osogbo–Ikirun–Kwara Boundary Road project. This strategic road, stretching over 20 kilometres, is now wearing a new look and easing the movement of commuters and businesses due to Governor Adeleke’s intervention.

Beyond road construction, the government has undertaken extensive intervention projects, including the dualization of the Osogbo-Ikirun Road with modern street lighting, rehabilitation of critical roads in Osogbo, Ede, Ilesa, Ikirun, Iwo, Ikire, and Ile-Ife, as well as spot patching of failed road sections at Lameco-Station Road, Oke Fia-Dele Yes Sir axis, Oke Onitea, and Owode.

The administration has also constructed and rehabilitated critical culverts across the state, including the Shasha failed culvert on the University of Osun Road, the Adeeke failed culvert in Iwo, the Owoope/Oke Ola Ajegunle box culvert in Gbogan, and the Allahu Lateef Sawmill failed culvert in Ede. These interventions have improved transportation, reduced accidents, and enhanced economic activities in affected communities.

Governor Adeleke’s commitment to grassroots development is further demonstrated by the presentation of over ₦518 million to 40 communities across Osun State for community-driven infrastructural projects. This initiative has empowered local communities to identify and address their most pressing developmental needs, thereby deepening participatory governance.

Healthcare delivery under the Adeleke administration has equally witnessed significant improvements. Through the Imole Surgical and Medical Outreach Programme, no fewer than 18,000 beneficiaries across the nine federal constituencies of Osun State have received free medical attention. The programme provided free surgeries for cataracts, pterygium, hernia, and various body swellings, while also addressing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, malaria, tuberculosis, cough, and other ailments. This intervention has restored hope and improved the quality of life for thousands of vulnerable citizens who otherwise could not afford medical treatment.

Similarly, the enrollment of 3,000 Osun indigenes into the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS) has expanded access to affordable healthcare services and demonstrated the administration’s determination to prioritize the wellbeing of its people.

In the area of rural electrification, Governor Adeleke has continued to bridge the gap between urban and rural communities through the provision of transformers and other electrical materials. These interventions have enabled previously underserved communities to enjoy electricity, thereby stimulating local economies and improving living conditions.

The administration also deserves commendation for addressing long-standing issues concerning workers and pensioners. Through the payment of salaries and pension arrears dating back to January 2016, Governor Adeleke has restored confidence among civil servants and retirees. The prompt payment of salaries and pensions has not only enhanced workers’ morale but has also stimulated economic activities across the state.

One notable intervention that demonstrates the administration’s responsiveness to public concerns is the construction of the previously damaged Bokusoro/Adeeke Bridge in Iwo. For years, erosion had posed serious risks to commuters and residents, leading to concerns over potential loss of lives. Governor Adeleke’s intervention has addressed this challenge and restored safe passage for users of the bridge.

Recognizing the importance of technology in modern governance and economic development, Governor Adeleke launched Osun’s technology revolution through the introduction of a new Tech Innovation Policy, ICT Policy, domestication of Nigeria’s Startup Act, and the Osun Google Mapping Project. These initiatives position Osun State as a destination for digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven development.

Agriculture has also received significant attention under the present administration. Through the procurement of multiple tractors and the launch of initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural mechanization and food security, the government has demonstrated its commitment to increasing agricultural productivity, empowering farmers, and strengthening the state’s economy.

Equally commendable is the disbursement of over ₦1.58 billion in interest-free revolving loans to thousands of cooperative societies, women, and youths across Osun State. This intervention has empowered small businesses, enhanced entrepreneurship, created employment opportunities, and improved livelihoods across the state.

When viewed holistically, it becomes evident that the three-year-old administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke has surpassed many of its predecessors in infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, healthcare delivery, education, agriculture, and indeed the industrialization of Osun’s economy.

Within a relatively short period, Governor Adeleke has placed Osun State firmly on the map as a model of progressive governance, visionary leadership, and people-centered development. His administration has demonstrated that democracy can truly work for the people when leaders prioritize accountability, transparency, compassion, and service above personal interests.

The genuine accountability, transparency, and humanity that Governor Adeleke has consistently displayed since the inception of his administration offer valuable lessons in leadership and governance. His approach has shown that the government exists primarily to serve the people and improve their quality of life.

As Osun State continues on this path of development and transformation, it is important for the people to recognize and support leadership that has consistently demonstrated commitment to their welfare. The masses of Osun State should stand firmly behind Governor Ademola Adeleke, who has remained above board in steering the affairs of the state with responsibility, compassion, and vision.

Given the impressive achievements recorded within three years, there is a compelling case for the continuation of this developmental trajectory. The people of Osun State deserve the opportunity to consolidate these gains by supporting Governor Ademola Adeleke for another tenure of office from 2026 to 2030, so that the ongoing transformation of the state can be sustained and expanded for the benefit of present and future generations.

Adewole Kehinde writes from Ilesa, Osun State. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com X: @kennyadewole 08166240846