Copyright tribuneonlineng
Osun governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, affirmed that his administration would be more focused on deepening people-oriented projects and ensuring inclusivity in its policies. The governor who made the disclosure at a grassroots engagement forum in Abere on Friday, stated that his government would not relent in building capacity from the grassroots. Represented by the Commissioner for Political Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. Biyi Odunlade, the governor explained that genuine progress can only be achieved when communities at the local level are empowered and involved in governance. According to him, “Every politician begins at the grassroots. “If politics is not strengthened from the grassroots, we cannot have development.” He then appreciated every participant at the forum, saying, “We appreciate your cooperation and trust. You will never regret supporting this government.“By the grace of God, our focus on the people will continue to yield results that everyone can celebrate.” The governor, therefore, appreciated their support and assured them that his administration’s policies would continue to prioritise rural areas. Those in attendance were community leaders, market women, students, youths, and artisans, to review ongoing development initiatives and identify new community needs. However, in his own submission, the organiser of the programme, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Rural Development and Community Affairs, Hon. Adetunji Ajala, said the engagement was designed to strengthen dialogue between the government and the people to identify areas that require further attention. “We want to hear directly from the people — what has been done, what still needs to be done,” he said. “That’s the only way governance can remain relevant to the people.” Ajala highlighted projects such as rural electrification, feeder road construction, farmer empowerment schemes, and the “Rara Project” aimed at improving the transportation of farm produce as part of the administration’s achievements. He added that the government’s success was reflected in the testimonies from rural communities. Commissioner for Rural Development and Community Affairs, Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa, also outlined the progress recorded under the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), where communities contribute 5% of project costs while the state covers the remaining 95%. He noted that several World Bank-assisted projects — including roads and transformer installations — would be commissioned by November 27. Olaoluwa praised Ajala for initiating the grassroots forum, describing it as a vital feedback mechanism for government accountability and performance tracking.Market leaders, including Alhaji Ismaila Olaiya, Chairman of the Osun State Market Association, lauded the Adeleke administration for its strides in infrastructure, education, and community development. “Governor Adeleke has shown that governance is about people, not politics,” Olaiya said. “He has touched the lives of ordinary citizens across the state.” Alhaji Agbajelola Salam, Chairman of the Community Governance Council (CGC) in Osun State, described Governor Adeleke as a Godsent to the people of Osun State, noting his impact within 3 years of his administration. “Governor Ademola Adeleke is a Godsent to the people of Osun state, because what he has done within these 3 years is very superb compared to those who spent 12 years without nothing and people should be ready to vote for him for a second term,” Salam said. He explained the event’s focus on grassroots improvement, noting a shift from traditional communal practices like “aaro” and “owe” in Yoruba culture to modern Community Groups (CGs).
