The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun on Thursday called for deeper collaboration between government and citizen-led organisations, stressing that strengthening teachers and community institutions is key to achieving inclusive governance and sustainable development.
He made the call in Osogbo during the foundation laying ceremony of the Osun Development Association (ODA) House at the group’s secretariat in Oke-Pupa, describing the project as a practical example of how community organisations can complement government efforts.
Represented by the the Commissioner for Commercial and Industry, Rev Bunmi Jenyo said: “The government alone cannot do it all. Development requires the active participation of organised citizens and credible community platforms,” Adeleke said.
He described the Osun Development Association as a trusted vehicle for mobilising Osun indigenes both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, noting that its activities over the years have contributed to education, youth engagement, and social cohesion across the state.
“The foundation laying of the ODA House is not just a physical project. It is a symbol of unity, vision, and commitment to the progress of Osun State,” the governor added.
Adeleke said the permanent secretariat would strengthen the association’s capacity for coordination, dialogue, planning, and structured engagement with government and development partners, stressing that such partnerships are vital for long-term growth.
Highlighting his administration’s record, the governor said his government has prioritised economic stabilisation, workers’ welfare, infrastructure development, and investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, and security.
“Our commitment to prompt payment of salaries and pensions has restored dignity to public service. We have also made progress in road rehabilitation, school renewal, health facility upgrades, and social protection programmes,” he said.
He assured ODA of his administration’s openness to partnerships that align with the state’s development agenda, urging members to see the project as a renewed call to service.
“Let this project inspire greater unity and impact in your engagements. Together, through collective action, we will continue to move Osun State forward,” Adeleke said.
While speaking, a founding member of the association, Prof. Olu Aina, said the event focused on the foundation laying of the ODA House and the launch of a teachers’ renewal programme.
“There are two things being focused on today: the ODA House project and the teachers’ renewal programme, which is aimed at strengthening education,” he said.
Chairman of the association, Dr. Segun Aina, said the large turnout at the event showed broad-based support for the association’s initiatives.
“The attendance has given us confidence that the projects we have planned will be successful,” he said, disclosing that the association hopes to complete the ODA House within one year, subject to available funding.
Dr. Aina explained that the teachers’ renewal programme was prioritised because of its far-reaching impact on society.
“If we improve the capacity of teachers, we are improving the capacity of millions of people, including generations yet unborn. Teachers shape every profession,” he said.
