Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has declared that his administration has successfully cut the state’s infrastructure deficit by more than half since taking office in 2022.
During a live broadcast on Wednesday in Osogbo to mark his third year in office, the Governor recalled that the infrastructure deficit stood at over 80 percent when he began his tenure.
“Today, we have reduced the infra deficit by over 50 percent. Osun has become one of the fastest-growing states in road connectivity,” he stated.
Emphasizing that infrastructure is the smartest path to economic development, he revealed that over 255 kilometers of internal roads have been completed in both urban and rural areas, with another 160 kilometers currently under construction. He provided specific progress reports on key projects, such as the Ilesa dualisation (99% complete), Ife flyover (78%), and the Oke flyover (99%).
“Our focus is clear: linking our communities for greater economic impact.”
Beyond road construction, he noted that rehabilitation efforts have reconnected farming communities to essential services, while drainage improvements were prioritized.
“We expanded drainage systems to prevent flooding and protect our roads,” he noted.
Lighting Up Osun
Highlighting the Operation Light Up Osun initiative, the Governor confirmed that completed roads are now equipped with solar-powered streetlights.
“All major roads in the capital are already lit up,” he said.
Local Content and Economic Retention
The governor detailed an integrated plan to decongest traffic and boost urban renewal in major towns like Osogbo, Ikirun, Ile-Ife, and Ilesa. He stressed his commitment to keeping public resources within the state economy.
“My good people of Osun State, I have ensured that Osun money serves Osun people. Local content simply means giving priority to local people, businesses, and materials.”
He affirmed that the government is actively preventing capital flight.
“The state government had taken steps to block capital flight and strengthen homegrown capacity.”
By utilizing local resources, the administration has created opportunities for the workforce.
“The administration consistently engaged local contractors, engineers, and artisans while sourcing sand, stones and cement within Osun. Young artisans, bricklayers, carpenters and engineers are now finding work on state projects.”
“Ongoing direct-labour approaches on road and school rehabilitation had ensured employment and skills development across communities. Ours is a people-centred development philosophy. It is development by the people and for the people,” he concluded.