The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Osun State Command, says a young girl of unknown identity has been brought to its office by concerned members of the public.
In a statement, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Kehinde Adeleke, says the girl is estimated to be between 15 and 16 years old.
Mrs Adeleke explained that the teenager is both deaf and mute and has been unable to provide any useful information about her identity, family, or place of residence.
She added that the command, under the leadership of Commandant Igbalawole Sotiyo, appealed to members of the public who may have any information that could help identify the girl or locate her family to come forward and assist.
The National Horticultural Research Institute, NIHORT, has trained farmers in Osun State on converting plantain and banana waste into organic soap to promote environmental sustainability and boost income generation.
The training forms part of NIHORT’s efforts to reduce environmental degradation and support the global drive to curb ozone layer depletion.
Leaders of farmers’ groups selected participants based on residents’ responses across the benefiting communities.
At Ansaruldeen Grammar School, Atile, Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area, seventy-five residents participated, while twenty-seven farmers were trained at Esa Oke Farm Settlement in Obokun Local Government Area.
Seventy-seven participants drawn from five local government areas converged on Ile-Ife, while fifty-seven farmers attended the session in Orile Owu, Ayeda’ade Local Government Area.
Facilitators administered pre-test questionnaires before exposing participants to theoretical and practical sessions, followed by post-test assessments.
Principal Research Officer, NIHORT, Mrs Adebisi Akinrinola anchored the training on soap production using the saponification process.
The process involves burning plantain and banana stalks into potash, extracting alkali, and cooking it with oil over several hours to produce raw soap pellets, which can be processed into liquid or paste soap.
Participants in Ile-Ife, drawn from Ife-East, Ife-Central, Ife-South, Ife-North and Ife Area Office, converged on Akogun Olusidodo Compound Hall, while those in Orile Owu gathered at Ejemu Compound Hall.
In her remarks, Director of Research, NIHORT, Dr Oluyemisi Adebisi-Adelani said improper disposal of plantain and banana waste contributes to environmental challenges.
“I’m so happy. It is a thing I have been thinking, envisioning. Last year we came and we talked about our new product, natural from plantain and banana because they have a lot of wastes from ikire, Orile Owu, Ife Esa-Oke, in fact Osun State. They showed their interest and we wrote the proposal and our Executive Director, Professor Mohammed Lawal Attanda followed it up. He gave us the permission to go ahead and this day came and we are here.” “Yes! Plantain and banana waste when they are disposed it contribute to what is called green house emission which also increase the depletion of the ozone layer. So this training is very important.”
Dr Adebisi-Adelani added that the initiative would provide additional income opportunities for farmers.
“It is another source of income if they can put the training into use”.
She also disclosed that NIHORT has developed improved crop varieties, including HORTITOM 1–7 tomato varieties, HORTPLAN 1 and 2 plantain varieties, HORTBAN 1 and 2 banana varieties, and HORTIONI 1 to 6 onion varieties adapted to Nigeria’s climate.
Some beneficiaries, including Rofiat Bakare and Azeezat Aribidesi, expressed appreciation to NIHORT and pledged to apply the knowledge.
“We thanked NIHORT; in fact they taught us a lot. They taught us that in waste to wealth we can use banana and plantain wastes and make organic soap which is very good to our skin and serve as our source of income. I’m ready to make use of the training effectively to increase my source of income and to improve my own health”.
The four-day training, held from the 14th to the 17th of the month, began in Ikire and ended in Orile-Owu, with participants expressing appreciation through songs and solidarity choruses.
Monarchs in Osun State have called for immediate government intervention following a surge in kidnapping incidents across border communities.
The appeal was made in a Communique issued by the State Council of Obas and signed by the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesha, Oba Michael Ajayi, after a meeting held in the Palace of Ooni of Ile-Ife.
The Council frowned at the increasing spate of kidnapping activities in boundary communities, hence the need to strengthen security coordination across neighbouring states.
The Communique states “Communities such as Ora-Igbomina in Ifedayo Local Government Area have witnessed a troubling rise in abductions.”
The Monarchs cited the case of a retired Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, who was kidnapped in December 2025 and reportedly held for about a month before regaining his freedom.
They urged security agencies to intensify surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and deploy adequate personnel to vulnerable locations.
The Council called the Federal Government and the Osun State Government to implement proactive measures aimed at protecting lives and property.
While reaffirming their support for lawful security operations, the traditional rulers appealed to residents to remain vigilant and assist authorities with credible information to curb the menace.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has congratulated Muslim faithful in the state on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke urged Muslims to uphold the values of faith, unity, and compassion.
He commended the faithful for their devotion and discipline during the fasting period, describing Ramadan as a season that reflects not only abstinence but also commitment to social justice, charity, and community service.
Highlighting the significance of the holy month, Governor Adeleke encouraged Muslims to sustain its lessons beyond Ramadan and continue to promote peace and social cohesion across communities.
The governor assured the Muslim community of his administration’s commitment to protecting their rights, supporting religious institutions, and ensuring inclusive governance and development.
He reaffirmed his government’s focus on people-centred policies, noting ongoing efforts to improve welfare, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in the state.
Governor Adeleke also called on the Muslim Ummah to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebration to pray for peace and stability in Osun State, especially at the grassroots, while urging residents to celebrate responsibly and support the less privileged.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has called for the immediate release of over ₦130 billion in statutory allocations allegedly withheld from the state’s local governments, describing the situation as a major threat to grassroots governance and the welfare of workers and residents.
The governor, who made the demand in a state broadcast, condemned the illegal occupation of local government secretariats across the state by court-sacked chairmen and councillors of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Governor Adeleke said the occupation has persisted for almost a year despite a clear judgment of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, delivered in November 2022, and subsequent affirmations by the Court of Appeal in February and June 2025, which nullified the elections that produced the officials.
He accused the former governor of the state, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, of allegedly backing the continued occupation of the council secretariats with the support of the police, warning that such actions undermine democracy and the rule of law.
The governor further alleged that local government workers attempting to resume duty had been harassed and intimidated by armed police officers and political thugs, creating an atmosphere of fear and disruption at the grassroots level. He pointed out that the withheld funds are critical for the payment of salaries and entitlements of primary school teachers, nurses, health workers in the state’s 332 primary health care centres, local government staff, traditional councils, and retirees. The governor said the state government has had to make painful sacrifices to sustain salary payments for almost 12 months, a situation he described as unsustainable. Appealing for federal intervention, he called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the immediate release of the withheld funds and to protect democratic institutions at the local government level. He maintained that the president was not involved in the alleged illegality and urged him to intervene in the interest of constitutional order. While calling on Nigerians and pro-democracy groups to speak out against the continued occupation of local government secretariats and to demand the release of council funds, Governor Adeleke urged residents of the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to upholding the constitution and safeguarding the welfare of the people.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has announced 11th March, as the official commencement date for political campaigns ahead of forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.
The State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke,Stated this while responding to questions from Newsmen during an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held in Osogbo .
Dr. Agboke said the campaign timeline would be formally communicated to political actors in line with existing Electoral Act and guidelines.
Dr Agboke states ” By God’s grace, full campaign activities will commence on March 11, 2026. We will still meet with stakeholders, especially political parties, to brief them appropriately.”
He explained that the Commission would outline campaign protocols to guide political parties throughout the process.
The Osun INEC boss emphasised the need for collective responsibility in achieving credible electoral processes in the state.
The stakeholders agreed with us on this assuring that they will participate and they have also shown their readiness to cooperate and ensure the success of the exercise,” he added.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has announced the immediate cleaning and clearing of the Ikirun Palace, which had become bushy due to the prolonged kingship crisis in the town.
The governor expressed displeasure over the neglected state of the palace, describing it as unacceptable for such an important cultural and historical symbol of Ikirun land.
He made the announcement during a condolence visit to Ikirun, where he sympathised with families of prominent sons of the town who recently passed away. Governor Adeleke noted that the abandoned condition of the palace was a direct result of the prolonged kingship dispute, which had stalled proper management and upkeep of the royal institution. He assured residents that the state government would take immediate steps to restore the palace environment, pending a lasting resolution of the kingship matter.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection and promotion of indigenous beliefs and cultural heritage, describing traditional worshippers as indispensable stakeholders in the peace, unity and development of the state. The Governor stated this at the 2026 Isese Prayer Session organised by traditional worshippers to usher in the New Year, held at the parking lot of the Governor’s Office, Bola Ige House, Osun State Secretariat. Governor Adeleke expressed delight at being among traditional worshippers, apologising for his absence at previous editions of the prayer session while noting that his administration had always been adequately represented. He commended the worshippers for their consistent prayers, attributing the achievements recorded by his government to divine support. The Governor assured that his administration remained committed, stressing that the state will continue on its current path of good governance, infrastructural development and people-centred policies, through collective effort and divine intervention, the state would overcome its challenges. Governor Adeleke assured traditional worshippers of his government’s continued support and urged them to sustain their prayers and spiritual backing for the success of governance in the state. Speaking on behalf of traditional worshippers, the President of the Traditional Worshippers Association of Osun State (TWARZO), Dr. Oluseyi Atanda, thanked Governor Adeleke for recognising indigenous traditions and giving them their rightful place in the affairs of the state. Dr. Atanda noted that traditional worshippers have continued to play vital roles in promoting peace, unity and community development across Osun State, stressing that the preservation of culture and heritage is essential for sustainable development. He assured the Governor of the total support of traditional worshippers, pledging their readiness to stand with the Adeleke administration through 2030, while committing to sustained prayers and spiritual support for the continued progress of the state. The event featured prayers and invocations for Governor Adeleke, the success of his administration, the development of Osun State and the nation at large.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Osun State, has announced the commencement of the second phase of the Continuous Voters’ Registration exercise.
A statement by Osun INEC Public Relations Officer, Mr. Musa Olurode on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Mutiu Agboke stated that the exercise would commence on the 5th of January 2026.
Mr. Agboke urged all eligible voters in Osun State to take advantage of the exercise, as registration is a constitutional requirement for participation in elections.
The statement reads “ the Commission hereby informs the general public that the second phase of the “Continuous Voters’ Registration” , CVR Exercise will commence on Monday, January 5, 2026 across the state.”
“This phase of the CVR is intended to provide an opportunity for eligible Nigerians who did not register during the first phase to do so. It is also open to citizens who have attained the age of 18, as well as registered voters who wish to apply for transfer of their PVCs, correction of personal details, or replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).” It adds
He expressed the readiness of the commission to conducting a transparent, credible, inclusive, and acceptable electoral process, in compliance with the Electoral Act and the commission’s guidelines.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has commended the Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, for its decision to resume duties on January 5, 2026, describing the move as patriotic and people-oriented. Governor Adeleke in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, said the decision by local government workers represents a positive development for grassroots governance and service delivery across the state. He noted that the resumption of work would reinvigorate activities at the local government level and enhance social services for residents.
The Governor maintained that the resolve of the workers underscores the labour movement’s sensitivity to the yearnings and aspirations of the people, expressing optimism that the January 5 resumption would mark a new beginning for effective governance at the grassroots.
He emphasized that local government administration remained the most direct means of reaching citizens, adding that the decision by NULGE leadership reflects confidence in responsible and lawful leadership, also commended the Nigeria Police Force for its proactive steps in maintaining law and order at council secretariats across the state. Governor Adeleke reiterated his administration’s support for local government autonomy, describing the presidential decision on the matter as well-intentioned and aimed at deepening governance at the grassroots. He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and democratic principles, noting that only in a harmonious environment can the dividends of democracy be fully delivered to the people of Osun State.
The birth of Jesus Christ is the ultimate expression of divine love to humanity, as Governor Adeleke of Osun state urges Christians to continue spreading God’s love during this season.
In a Christmas message issued through his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor noted that, the festive season is the time of reflection, gratitude, and compassion, while calling on residents to remember the less privileged in society.
Governor Adeleke said, Christmas is a time for families, friends and communities to rejoice together, adding that the season gives room for kindness, peace, and unity across the state, as collective spirit of the people of Osun have remained a source of inspiration to his administration.
Merry Christmas from all of us at Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station
He also expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve the state, while appreciating the people for their patience, prayers, and commitment to the development of the state.
Governor Adeleke prayed for peace, joy, and abundant blessings for families during the Christmas celebration, expressing optimism that the coming year would usher in greater prosperity for the state.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, says governance is measured by the positive impact on citizens’ lives, not by appearances or authoritarian posturing. The Governor stated this while addressing the Iwude Ijesa Carnival in Ilesa, where he insisted that effective leadership was not and should not be a master–servant relationship. Governor Adeleke said governance would soon make a direct positive impact on the lives of the people. ”Judge me on my records, outputs and agenda as a governor. That is the globally accepted parameter for measuring leadership.” The Governor maintained that his administration has delivered across all sectors and touched every federal constituency in the state over the past three years, describing his achievements as proof of his capacity and competence to continue leading Osun State. He dismissed criticisms of his administration, urging detractors to assess his leadership based on verifiable records and tangible outcomes, rather than personal style or perceptions. Governor Adeleke, who congratulated the Ijesa people on the Iwude celebration, said his government carried out extensive assessments of development challenges in Ijesaland upon assumption of office in late 2022, which he alleged had suffered years of environmental degradation and revenue loss due to illegal mining activities and lack of accountability under the previous administration. According to him, underground water across Ijesaland had been declared polluted as a result of unchecked mining, while revenues from the sector were diverted into private pockets. He noted that his administration has since embarked on comprehensive mining sector reforms, secured Osun State’s shareholding in the Segilola Gold Project, intensified the fight against illegal mining, and commenced continuous environmental remediation, including a professionally managed river clean-up initiative. The Governor also said that the controversial Ilesa Water Project, had been reviewed, cleaned up, and repositioned for continuation following anti-corruption measures and processing support from the Islamic Development Bank. He announced that the road dualisation project in Ilesa had been completed with the installation of solar streetlights, while the University of Ilesa has become a reality, boasting close to 100 accredited courses. Governor Adeleke who described Ilesa as a hub of entrepreneurship, revealed plans to partner Owa’s Palace on a holistic industrialisation agenda through public-private partnerships. He also made known that Osun’s proposed airport would have a component located within Ijesaland, a move expected to boost trade and commerce.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has unveiled plans to reposition Adire as a major driver of economic growth, job creation and global recognition for the state.
Speaking at the opening of the Adire Osun Export Summit and Fashion Couture in Osogbo, the Governor said the state has begun realising its long-held vision of placing Adire at the centre of public consciousness.
He described the indigenous textile as a neglected goldmine with vast economic potential, and saying, the Adire development agenda is being implemented in phases, starting with public sensitisation.
He said this will be followed by a public-private partnership framework, training and capacity building, the establishment of Adire industrial hubs, and expansion into African and global markets.
The Governor explained that his administration first moved to reclaim Osun’s heritage as the birthplace of Adire, a process he said remained ongoing.
He said enforcement of Adire usage within the public service has recorded notable success.
He noted that capacity building and financial empowerment for Adire makers have faced some constraints.
Governor Adeleke said the government prioritised massive sensitisation, hosting more than five Adire-focused events in the last two years.
He said the initiatives have increased public awareness and attracted growing stakeholder interest.
The governor said the summit was designed to expose participants to business and export opportunities within the Adire industry, noting that, Adire has become a leading fashion choice across Africa and globally, attracting patronage from political leaders and business executives.
Governor Adeleke revealed that his administration is pursuing holistic development of the Adire industry through an integrated value-chain approach, adding that, this includes raw material production, university-based textile courses, equipment manufacturing, industrial facilities, export infrastructure and supportive financial systems.
The governor announced that from 2026, a comprehensive stakeholders’ implementation plan for the Adire value chain will be released.
He assured industry players of inclusive participation in the process.
While commending the organising committee, Governor Adeleke said the summit marked a critical phase in implementing the state’s vision for the Adire sub-sector.
He directed that local Adire makers must be prioritised across all value-chain activities and warned against sidelining local expertise in favour of external operators.
One person has been killed while another sustained injuries in a lone motorcycle accident that occurred on Tuesday night at the Jagilegbo area of Ifetedo, in Osun State.
According to the Osun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the fatal crash occurred at about 9:45 p.m. along the township route.
The FRSC State Public Education Officer, Mrs. Agnes Ogungbemi, said the accident involved two adult males riding a single unregistered motorcycle.
Mrs. Ogungbemi explained that the motorcycle, a black TVS model, was travelling at high speed before losing control.
“The motorcycle, a black TVS model, was said to have been travelling at high speed before the crash occurred and overspeeding was the possible cause of the accident.
One of the riders died at the scene, while the second victim sustained head injuries and bruises.”
She added that the injured victim was immediately rescued and taken to a general hospital for medical attention, while the corpse of the deceased was deposited at the Divine Haven Morgue in Ondo.
“The injured victim was promptly rescued and taken to a general hospital for medical treatment and the corpse of the deceased was deposited at Divine Haven Morgue in Ondo,” she stressed.
Confirming the incident, the Osun State Sector Commander of the FRSC,Mr. Leye Adegboyega, cautioned road users against excessive speeding.
He urged motorists and riders to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and to comply strictly with traffic regulations, noting that such measures would significantly reduce road accidents.
The All Progressive Congress, APC has disqualified the Former National Secretary of the APC, Senator Iyiola Omisore and six other aspirants from participating in the forthcoming governorship primary in Osun State.
According to the Screening committee, the disqualified aspirants did not provide evidence of sponsorship by at least five fully registered and financially up-to-date party members from each Local Government Area in Osun State, as stipulated in Articles 9.3(i) and 31.2(ii) of the APC Constitution and Paragraph 6(c) of the party’s guidelines.
Other disqualified aspirants including ; former Deputy Governor of Osun State ,Mr. Benedict Alabi, Mr.Dotun Babayemi, Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, Senator Babajide Omoworare, Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN, and Mr Babatunde Oralusi.
Meanwhile, the APC Screening committee has cleared two aspirants, Mrs. Mulikat Jimoh and Alhaji Munirudeen Oyebamiji to contest the primary scheduled to hold on 13th of this month.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has ignited shockwaves across the political landscape by formally quitting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—a decision he made effective November 4, 2025.
His spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, confirmed the bombshell announcement, revealing that the governor had already sent a resignation letter to the PDP Chairman of Ward 2, Sagba Abogunde, in Ede North.
In the letter, Governor Adeleke blamed his dramatic exit on a deepening crisis within the PDP’s national leadership, declaring that the turmoil left him with no choice but to walk away immediately.
“Due to the current crisis within the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I hereby resign my membership of the PDP with immediate effect,” he wrote in the personally signed letter.
Despite the abrupt break, Governor Adeleke expressed gratitude to the party that powered his rise—from Senator for Osun West to Governor of Osun State.
His resignation now casts a long shadow over Osun State’s political future, fueling speculation about his next move as his administration enters a decisive phase.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has condoled with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state over the death of its former chairman, Prince Adegboyega Famodun.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor reflected on Famodun’s long-standing relationship with the Adeleke family during his years in the United States, describing him as a distinguished politician who made notable contributions to Osun’s political development.
Governor Adeleke also extended condolences to the people of Igbajo and urged prayers for the repose of the late politician.
He prayed for strength for the bereaved family and members of the opposition to bear the loss.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has reassured residents of their safety amid rising banditry in neighbouring states, commending security agencies for their proactive measures.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke said strategic security meetings have been ongoing over the past three weeks to prevent infiltration by criminal elements.
He praised the Commissioner of Police, the Director of the State Security Service (DSS), the Army Commander, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other agencies for vigilance and preparedness.
The governor noted that national security leaders, including the Inspector General of Police, the DSS Director-General, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the NSCDC Commandant-General, have given special attention to Osun State.
He directed the Amotekun Security Service to collaborate closely with the police and other agencies, while urging residents to remain security-conscious and report suspicious activities.
“Security deployment is ongoing in strategic areas, and intelligence agencies maintain comprehensive oversight. We commend the DSS for arresting high-profile terrorists and dismantling their cells in Osun,” he added.
On local governance, Governor Adeleke said stakeholders await the Supreme Court’s ruling on the local government matter and insisted on remaining law-abiding.
Regarding judiciary challenges, he expressed optimism that internal matters will soon be resolved and stressed he will not interfere in judicial affairs.
Governor Adeleke reassured citizens that good governance continues uninterrupted, citing achievements in digital economy, economic empowerment, workers’ welfare, and infrastructure upgrades across the state.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, received a jubilant welcome in Modakeke, Osun State, during a historic visit that underscored a renewed commitment to peace and collaboration between the two communities.
Thousands of residents lined the streets as traditional drummers and cultural troupes heralded the Ooni’s arrival at the palace of the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Toriola.
In his address, Oba Toriola praised the Ooni’s dedication to harmony across Yorubaland.
“We see what you are doing across Yorubaland, in the North, East and even abroad. You have allowed peace to reign, and for that, we are grateful,” Oba Toriola stated.
The Ogunsua then shifted focus to two critical local issues as he called for enhanced security measures, citing reports of bandit incursions, and made a direct political appeal.
“Kabiyesi, the time has come for an Ife-born governor. Let us work together to achieve this,” Oba Toriola declared.
President of the Modakeke Progressive Union, MPU, Professor Olawunmi, described the day as “heroic,” crediting both monarchs with demonstrating an “uncommon commitment to peace.”
Responding, Ooni Ogunwusi expressed gratitude for the visible progress in Modakeke under Oba Toriola’s reign, specifically noting the construction of the new palace.
He assured the community of his continued support and promised to attend the forthcoming Akoraye Day celebration.
“As requested, I will not be far away from Modakeke. This is my home,” the Ooni said, urging a final break from past conflicts.
“Let us forget old rifts. Anyone who does not want peace to reign should be helped to stay away.”
He directly addressed those who might exploit the harvest season to stir tension under the guise of the historic Ife-Modakeke rivalry, firmly stating that such acts belong to the past.
“No war can ever happen again between Ife and Modakeke, not under my reign as the Arole Oduduwa. Those who cause trouble are thieves, not our people,” Ooni Ogunwusi declared.
The event concluded with the Ooni praying for lasting peace, unity, and progress, while urging the youth to embrace hard work and shun violence.
The gathering included numerous high-ranking traditional leaders from both Ife and Modakeke among whom were the Obalaaye of Iraye Kingdom, Oba Eludoja Elugbemi, the Lowa Ate of Ile-Ife, Arode of Ile-Ife, Oosa of Modakeke, Asipa Balogun of Modakeke, Balogun Iyalode of Modakeke.
One thousand, five hundred students in tertiary institutions in Osun state have received bursary award under the initiative of a member, representing Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, Mr Bamidele Salam.
Similarly, over three thousand secondary school students were provided with educational materials including text books and school bags.
Student bodies and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, equally received grants facilitated by the lawmaker.
Presenting the grants and bursary awards at the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Orientation Camp, Ede, the state governor, Ademola Adeleke thanked the lawmaker for investing in the educational advancement of young people and teachers across Osun State.
He described the gesture as a direct investment in the future of the state,
The governor however noted that government alone could not shoulder the burden, calling for more partnership to deepen impact.
Governor Adeleke urged the students to make best use of the opportunity, remain focused, and honour the sacrifices of their parents and teachers by striving for excellence. “Together, as governments, legislators, teachers, parents, and communities, we can raise a generation that will lead Osun State and Nigeria to greater heights,” Adeleke affirmed.
In a remark, Mr. Bamidele Salam explained that the gesture was part of his commitment to education from the 2025 budget allocation.
He explained that the initiative was designed to reduce the burden on students and parents.
Beneficiaries of the bursary awards and school materials expressed gratitude to the Lawmaker, adding that the relief will lessen the pressure they face as students and help them to stay focus on their academics.
Osun state government has commenced the distribution of teaching and learning materials to public schools across the state as part of efforts to enhance the quality of education.
The Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye, flagged off the exercise in Osogbo, assuring that, his administration will continue to prioritize investments in the education sector.
Governor Adeleke highlighted his government’s achievements since assuming office, noting that, counterpart funds owed to the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, from 2019 to 2024 had been cleared.
He noted that, over 400 classrooms had been constructed and refurbished in 139 schools, while more than 12,500 sets of furniture had been supplied to pupils, students, and teachers.
Other interventions, according to him, included the provision of ICT facilities, solar systems, and 1,000 tablets for attendance monitoring, as well as improvements in teachers’ welfare, school sports, agricultural training, and special care for children with disabilities.
Governor Adeleke disclosed that, the 2024 UBEC/SUBEB Action Plan, which is underway, covers the construction of 333 classrooms, boreholes, toilets, ICT facilities, perimeter fencing, and the supply of more teaching equipment, motorcycles, and vehicles for monitoring.
He further announced that, the Alternative School for Girls in Osogbo will resume academic activities on September 22, while the UBEC Model Smart School in the state capital is equally ready to take off, with plans to replicate the model across the state.
While commending the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Chairman, Mr Ibukun Fadipe, and his team for their dedication, also appreciating UBEC for its partnership with the state, Governor Adeleke reiterated his administration’s resolve to secure the future of Osun children through sustainable investment in quality education.
The Osun State Government has announced plans to take formal action following the conviction of Oba Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun I, the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, who was recently sentenced to prison in the United States for fraud.
The decision was reached during the State Executive Council meeting in Osogbo, presided over by Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The Governor directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to immediately initiate steps to address what he described as an ugly development.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Chief Kolapo Alimi, the state government said it would first obtain a Certified True Copy of the U.S. court judgment before taking further action.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has also been tasked to engage Ipetumodu kingmakers and stakeholders to ensure peace and stability in the community.
According to the government, the commissioner will review the legal standing of the throne under Osun’s chieftaincy laws, ensuring all steps comply strictly with due process to forestall disputes.
“The government remains committed to protecting the integrity of traditional stools across Osun State while taking necessary measures to preserve peace, order, and cultural heritage,” the statement added.
Oba Oloyede was in August 2025 sentenced to 56 months in prison by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio after pleading guilty to defrauding the American government of about $4.2 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
He was also ordered to pay restitution of $4,408,543.38 and placed on supervised release for three years.
The monarch, alongside a co-defendant, Pastor Edward Oluwasanmi, admitted guilt to charges of wire fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering.
The Osun State Executive Council has reviewed key government policies and issued new directives to ministries, departments, and agencies, MDAs.
The meeting, presided over by Governor Ademola Adeleke lasted late into the night, provided a sector-by-sector appraisal of government activities and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends despite prevailing challenges.
Addressing cabinet members, Governor Adeleke expressed satisfaction with the widespread endorsements and commendations his government has received from different groups across the state.
He described the positive ratings as a validation of his administration’s performance, while charging his team not to relent.
“Despite the challenges facing us, we are fulfilling our obligations especially in critical areas of governance,” the Governor said.
On infrastructure, the Governor noted that the Ministry of Works is making steady progress on major road and flyover projects across the state.
He specifically mentioned the Ilesa dualisation, the Ile-Ife flyover, the Oke Fia/Lameco flyovers, and the Iwo dualisation, stressing that timelines for delivery must be met.
In the power sector, Governor Adeleke directed the Commissioner for Energy to immediately develop an implementation plan for the newly passed State Electricity Market law, with support from the National Electricity Regulatory Commission.
He tasked the Ministry of Science and Innovation with fast-tracking the rollout of the State ICT Policy and the State Tech Innovation Policy, instructing the ministry to design a roadmap for the application of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, while commending the Imole Wi-Fi initiative recently unveiled in parts of the state.
On agriculture, the Governor Adeleke ordered the immediate revival and expansion of the Statewide Youth Agropreneurship Project, urging the Ministry of Agriculture to commence full implementation across all local government areas.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Governor’s as council resolutions while a high-powered committee was set up to address manpower shortages in the health and education sectors.
The council approved the elevation of several minor chiefs, in a key traditional decision, Prince Adeleke Saheed Adeyemi was confirmed as the new Olokusa of Okusa in Egbedore Local Government.
A new chapter has opened for Oluwatosin Adejumo, a puff-puff seller in Osogbo, as Governor Ademola Adeleke presented her with an appointment letter as a staff of the Government House.
The gesture fulfilled a promise made by the Governor earlier after a roadside encounter, when he patronized Miss Adejumo during a public engagement at the state secretariat, where he had supported her with cash and pledged further assistance.
Miss Adejumo, who holds a National Certificate in Education, NCE, had taken to hawking puff-puff to support her family.
During the brief presentation ceremony, attended by her father, Mr. Kayode Adejumo, and Mrs. Funmilayo Ajakaye, who had supported her trade, Governor Adeleke also announced a scholarship for Oluwatosin at the Adeleke University, giving her the opportunity to pursue further studies.
The governor praised her as a symbol of the “new Osun spirit,” noting that she demonstrated dignity in labour and the value of hard work.
He stressed that his administration would continue to encourage industrious youths, with policies focused on empowerment, education, and job creation.
In her response, Miss Adejumo expressed gratitude to the governor, her family, and her benefactor, describing the opportunity as divine favour and a call to greater responsibility.
She urged youths to embrace skill acquisition and diligence, insisting that “no effort is ever wasted.”
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has turned the fortunes of a female puff-puff seller around when he bought all her snacks for ₦50,000 and immediately offered her employment as a chef at the Government House in Osogbo.
The heartwarming gesture took place during a solidarity rally organised by Osun public servants, who came out in their thousands to appreciate the Governor for prioritizing workers’ welfare since assuming office.
Governor Adeleke, who was seated inside a bus during the rally, reportedly noticed the woman in the crowd balancing a plastic container of puff-puff on her head while cheering along with others, he beckoned her closer and asked how much it would cost to buy all her snacks.
The puff-puff seller who was visibly nervous at her sudden proximity to the Governor, struggled to respond, the Governor, however, handed her a cash gift of ₦50,000, making the crowd shout for joy.
The woman immediately went down on her knees in gratitude, while excited onlookers helped themselves to the puff-puff that had already been bought by the governor.
Governor Adeleke later invited the hawker into his vehicle, where he asked about her cooking skills, and upon her confirmation, instructed aides to collect her contact details for immediate employment as a chef in the government house.
