Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has defended his administration’s economic policies and criticised the economic blueprint unveiled by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji.
Governor Adeleke said the APC’s proposals, if implemented, could undermine recent economic reforms in the state. The governor spoke through his media aide, Olawale Rasheed, in a statement issued on Sunday in Osogbo, the state capital.
According to the statement, an assessment of the APC candidate’s document revealed policy directions that differ sharply from the development framework currently being implemented by the Adeleke administration.
“The Adeleke administration’s strategy is anchored on local content utilisation, grassroots empowerment and reduced tax burdens, while the opposition blueprint allegedly promotes policies that may encourage capital movement outside the state,” the statement said.
Governor Adeleke stressed that his government’s approach is designed to ensure Osun resources directly benefit residents. “Our approach ensures that resources generated in Osun remain in Osun and create opportunities for our people,” he said.
The governor highlighted ongoing initiatives under his administration, including artisan and cooperative financing programmes valued at nearly ₦4 billion, the enforcement of local content policies in procurement, and the revival of the Osun Digital Economy Hub, aimed at boosting participation in the global technology sector.
He also mentioned reforms in tax harmonisation and digitisation, which have reportedly improved internally generated revenue, as well as the revival of free trade zones and agro-mechanisation programmes, which he said have positioned the state for industrial growth and agricultural expansion.
Responding to perceived similarities between both policy documents, Adeleke claimed that several aspects of the APC blueprint mirrored projects already being executed by his administration. “Several elements highlighted by the APC candidate are policies that are currently under implementation by this administration,” the statement noted.
The governor further referenced recent legislative actions, including the signing of the state electricity law, designed to regulate power generation and distribution. He said that implementation processes are ongoing to strengthen energy supply as a foundation for economic development.
On regional collaboration, Adeleke maintained that inter-state partnerships within the South-West were already active, but cautioned against arrangements that could weaken Osun’s local economy. “Any framework that sidelines local content risks reversing hard-earned gains,” the statement said.
Governor Adeleke also addressed references to the blue economy, pointing to ongoing public-private partnership projects such as the Owala Lake Beach Resort, which he said had been revived after years of neglect. He added that his administration has plans to develop other inland water and tourism assets to boost the state’s economy.
He reiterated that his administration is committed to sustaining current reforms and warned against abrupt policy shifts that could derail progress. “Osun is on a path of inclusive growth and economic stability, and we remain focused on policies that protect and advance these gains,” the statement said.
The governor’s comments come ahead of the 2026 governorship elections in Osun State, where economic policy and job creation are expected to be major campaign issues. The APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, unveiled his economic blueprint last week, outlining strategies he said would drive investment, create jobs, and modernise the state’s infrastructure.
However, Adeleke argued that some of Oyebamiji’s proposals appear to replicate initiatives already being carried out by his administration, raising concerns over originality and practicality.
The Adeleke administration also emphasises grassroots empowerment, which includes providing access to loans, skill acquisition programmes, and local sourcing policies to strengthen small and medium-scale enterprises in the state.
In addition, Adeleke has championed industrial development through agro-mechanisation, aimed at modernising farming practices, increasing productivity, and encouraging agribusiness ventures in Osun. His administration has also revitalised trade zones to attract investors and support local industries.
The governor’s reference to electricity reforms is particularly significant, as reliable power supply has been a longstanding challenge in many Nigerian states. The state electricity law, which governs power generation and distribution, is intended to provide a regulatory framework to ensure consistent and affordable energy for residents and businesses.
On tourism and the blue economy, Adeleke’s administration has invested in reviving abandoned tourist sites and creating new ones, including inland water projects and resort developments. The Owala Lake Beach Resort is one example of a public-private partnership designed to attract visitors, generate revenue, and create jobs.
Governor Adeleke’s critics, however, argue that while his administration has launched multiple programmes, the impact on job creation and poverty reduction has yet to reach its full potential. They contend that new ideas and competitive policy alternatives could enhance economic growth if implemented effectively.
In the statement, Adeleke highlighted that his administration will continue to strengthen local content utilisation, boost revenue generation, and support technological innovation, even as the state prepares for future elections.
Governor Adeleke concluded his statement by urging residents to remain confident in the state’s development path. “Our policies are designed to create opportunities, improve living standards, and build a strong, inclusive economy for every Osun resident,” he said.