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Osun @33: Adeleke Eulogises Founding Fathers, Calls For Solidarity
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has used the occasion of the 33rd anniversary of the creation of the state to pay tribute to the founding fathers and urged all to close ranks to build on already laid foundations.
He shared these views in a statewide broadcast on Tuesday August 26, 2024 to mark the 33rd anniversary of the state.
Gov Adeleke said, “as we celebrate our past, we must also look to the future. The journey ahead requires that we continue to work together irrespective of political affiliation in the spirit of unity and purpose that has brought us this far.”
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Full text of his broadcast below:
STATE BROADCAST ON THE 33RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE CREATION OF OSUN STATE BY HIS EXCELLENCY, ASIWAJU, SENATOR (DR.) ADEMOLA JACKSON NURUDEEN ADELEKE ON 27TH AUGUST, 2024.
Dear citizens of Osun State.
I am filled with immense pride and joy as I address you on the 33rd anniversary of the creation of our beloved Osun State. Today, we stand united in celebration of a journey that began three decades ago, a journey marked by determination, resilience, and a strong belief in our collective future.
On this day in 1991, our dream of having a state that we could call our own was realized. The creation of Osun State was a testament to the power of unity and the unwavering spirit of our people. It was the result of years of advocacy, sacrifice, and the courageous efforts of our founding fathers, who fought tirelessly for the recognition of our unique identity and aspirations.
Going down the memory lane, the struggle for the creation of Osun State started as early as 1950’s with a series of commissions of inquiry in the old Oyo State. And on August 27th, 1991, our state was carved out as a distinct entity from the old Oyo State with a vision for progress, unity, and prosperity.
33 years ago, the dream of a state that could stand tall and independent within the Nigerian federation became a reality. The creation of Osun State in 1991 was not merely a political event, but the fulfillment of the hopes and aspirations of our people. It was the result of years of unwavering commitment and sacrifice by those who believed that our unique cultural heritage, resources, and potential deserved recognition and development.
My dear people of Osun State, today marks a significant milestone in the history of our great state, a day of pride, reflection, and celebration for every son and daughter of this great land. Our state’s creation was a culmination of the aspirations and struggles of our people. The vision is the pathway and the guiding light into the future. This was what the founding fathers and the agitators for the creation of a state to be named “Osun” had in mind and did everything possible to realize the vision.
Today, we remember and honor those who championed the creation of Osun State, their labor was not in vain. They fought tirelessly, not for themselves, but for the future generation yet unborn. Their sacrifices remain the foundation upon which we stand today.
To these heroes, we owe our deepest gratitude and we are forever grateful to their resolve, advocating for a state where the voices of our people could be heard and their potentials fully harnessed.
We owe loads of gratitude to our founding royal fathers, politicians and activists such as the late Ooni of ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, late Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Oyewale Matanmi, late Orangun of Ila, Oba William Ayeni, Ariwajoye II, and other prominent traditional rulers to mention a few that played significant roles in the creation of the State.
The history will not be complete without mentioning some politicians and activists who fought tooth and nails to ensure successful creation of Osun State such as late Chief Bola Ige; late Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa; my father, late Senator Raji Adeleke; Pa Samson Adeola Siyanbola; Chief Kolawole Balogun; Chief Aiyelaagbe Laogun; Professor Olu Aina; Alhaji Rasheed Igbalaye; Chief Bisi Akande; Dr. Olu Alabi; Alhaji Tunde Badmus (TUNS); Chief Gunju Adesakin; Hon. Jonathan O. Awofisayo; General Alani Akinrinade; Engineer Tunde Ponle; late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke; and other prominent sons and daughters of the state, dead or alive. They are all honored and remembered. May their good work continue to live after them.
Good people of the State, in the 33 years since our state’s creation, we have faced both triumphs and challenges, but we have also made significant strides. Our state has grown in leaps and bounds, and we have every reason to be proud of our achievements. From the development of our infrastructure to the empowerment of our youth, from the preservation of our rich cultural heritage to the promotion of peace and security, Osun State has continued to evolve, becoming a model for other states in the Federation.
We have seen progress in education sector with renovation of schools across the State; expansion of healthcare access with complete renovation of 332 Primary Health Care Centers; infrastructure growth across the state with modern flyover across our urban centers; renewed attention to development of digital economy; transitioning to an agro industrialized economy; workers’ centered public service reform; revival of the agric sector; development of state energy legal and policy infrastructure; active support for students’ population; harnessing of state cultural and entertainment assets; integrated approach to youth development; refocusing of attention on sports development; empowerment of small businesses, cooperatives and artisans with operating funds; enforcement of local content in state governance; and ongoing payment of billions of naira in pension and half salary debt.
As we celebrate the birth of Osun State today, we must also look to the future with renewed determination, as the work of building a greater Osun is ongoing. It is a responsibility we all share. We must continue to pursue development with vigour and passion, ensuring that every citizen of this state benefits from the fruits of our labour.
Dear good people of Osun State, as we celebrate our past, we must also look to the future. The journey ahead requires that we continue to work together irrespective of political affiliation in the spirit of unity and purpose that has brought us this far. Our challenges are not insurmountable; they are opportunities for us to demonstrate our resilience, our innovation, and our commitment to building a prosperous state for all.
My fellow citizens, as we mark this 33rd anniversary, let us renew our pledge to contribute to the development of our state. Let us embrace the values of hard work, integrity, and community that have defined us as a people. Together, we can ensure that the Osun of tomorrow is even greater than the Osun of today.
As your Governor, I am committed to leading this charge with transparency, dedication, and accountability. As we all know that governance is a collective responsibility, I call on all of you—our traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil servants, artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs — to continue to play your part in the development of our state. Together, we can make Osun a model of excellence and progress.
Today, let us renew our commitment to the vision that inspired the creation of Osun State. Let us continue to work towards a future where every citizen can thrive, where opportunities abound, and where the legacy of our founding fathers remains strong.
In the face of challenges, we must remain steadfast. Together, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way. Our strength lies in our unity, our diversity, and our shared vision for a prosperous and peaceful Osun State.
On this 33rd anniversary, I ask that we all take a moment to reflect on the journey so far and to recommit ourselves to the ideals of our founding fathers. Osun State is our home, and it is our collective duty to ensure it continues to thrive.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every citizen of Osun State. Your support, your contributions, and your unwavering belief in the potential of our state have been the driving force behind our progress. Let us continue to walk this path together, hand in hand, towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
Thank you for your continued support of our government.
Happy Anniversary to us all.
May God bless Osun State, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you.
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of the federal government’s dedication to national security, economic transformation, and welfare of the citizens.
This was detailed in a Christmas message on Wednesday afternoon in Abuja under the signature of the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha.
According to the Vice President, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in its focus on these critical areas, as the country looks forward to the dawn of a new year.
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He said, “In these times of economic transformation, I want to assure you that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.”
Vice President Shettima particularly urged the citizens to imbibe the virtues of national unity during the yuletide season.
“Nigeria’s diversity remains our greatest strength. Let us avail ourselves of the time provided by the holiday season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us across all faiths and regions,” he said.
Senator Shettima assured Nigerians of the continued vigilance of the nation’s security forces, noting that “our brave security personnel will continue to work round the clock during this festive period to keep us safe.”
He said enhanced security measures have been put in place to protect the citizens during the holiday period.
“The relevant agencies have been mobilized to ensure your safety and comfort on all major routes,” he stated, urging travelers to remain vigilant.
VP Shettima expressed optimism about the nation’s trajectory in the coming year, saying, “I am filled with hope and optimism about Nigeria’s future. Together, we will build a more prosperous and united nation.
“To our young people, you are the backbone of our nation. The Renewed Hope administration is implementing various initiatives to create opportunities for you to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s development,” he added.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has felicitated Christians in Osun State and beyond on the occasion of the 2024 Christmas celebration, urging them to follow Jesus Christ’s example of compassion and tolerance.
Biztellers reports that Gov Adeleke described the birth of Jesus Christ as a defining moment for mankind, in a statement in Osogbo on Tuesday.
He described the festive season as a solemn reminder of the power of love and how it can save humanity.
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While recognising unity and togetherness as an important message that Jesus Christ’s life resonates, Gov Adeleke charged Osun people, particularly Christians, to draw from the spiritual import of the celebration by sharing love and fostering harmony in communities.
In his words, “I extend my warm wishes to Christian faithful in Osun state and beyond as we mark this year’s Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ is a manifestation of the power of love and remind us of the essence of compassion,” the Governor noted in his message.
“In the mood of celebration, I urge us to take a moment to reflect on the message of renewal that the birth of Jesus Christ signifies, promoting activities that will unite not divide, build not destroy, and bring peace not conflict.
“It is also my sincere appeal that we extend hands of kindness to the needy and the weak in the society, spreading love and generosity beyond borders. That is the essence of Christmas and it is most essential that at a time like this, no one is left to their fate.”
Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins, of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, has enjoined all Nigerian leaders to be more sensitive to the yearnings of the people for a better life.
This was contained in a 2024 Christmas Message to Nigerians issued in Lagos under the signature of the Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu.
According to the Archbishop there is an urgent need for a better enabling environment to allow businesses thrive in a bid to reduce the high rate of unemployment and the grinding poverty in the land.
He urged leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens over personal needs in addressing the widespread hunger, poverty, joblessness, and insecurity ravaging the nation.
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In his words, “Even in the face of policies that are deemed to have positive results in the long-term, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, floating of the naira and the new tax reforms initiative, governments must ensure that the immediate welfare of people is not neglected but factored into the planning and execution of such policies. This is necessary, if the people for whom the policies are being made are not to die before the positive results begin to manifest.
“At the same time, government spending must be prudent and compassionate. In addition, it is necessary to pay more attention to the agricultural sector so that food security can be ensured for overall benefit.”
The Prelate described as very sad and depressing the recent loss of several lives of innocent Nigerians in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra in their quest to access food palliatives owing to pervading hunger across the country.
He considered it worrisome that many Nigerians now find it difficult to purchase necessities of life, especially during this festive season that should be a period of merriment, sharing of love, food, and other essentials, which are the hallmarks of the Christmas season.
To forestall a reoccurrence of such ugly incidents, the prelate urged governments, at both federal and state levels, as well as the legislative assemblies, to identify and quickly fix the loopholes in the polity that are responsible for the massive poverty and hardship which Nigerians are facing.
He advocated the appraisal of the nation’s existing laws and enactment and enforcement of only proactive policies that would open the business environment, attract investors, and create more jobs so that the citizens can afford their basic needs; rather than depend on palliatives that offer only temporary relief.
The prelate urged substantial investments in the agricultural sector of the economy to ensure the availability of basic foodstuffs; thereby reducing the high cost of essential food items like rice, beans, onions and grains.
“If citizens have food in their homes, people will not endanger their lives while scrambling for palliatives in the way it happened,” he noted with sadness.
While praying for the souls of those who died in the recent stampedes in parts of the country, he also commiserated with those who lost their loved ones, praying that Jesus, the Prince of Peace would bring solace to the afflicted, comfort to the grieving, and hope to the despairing.
“This special season reminds us of the profound love of God, who sent His only Son to redeem humanity. May the light of Christ illuminate our lives, dispel darkness, and fill our hearts with love, compassion, and kindness. As we gather with family and friends, let us not forget those who are less fortunate, the vulnerable and the marginalised. May our celebration be a catalyst for acts of charity, generosity, and solidarity,” he stated.
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