Osun @30 NUJ Lecture: Historian Advocates Research, Archive Bureau Establishment

A Professor of History and former Executive Director, Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding Osogbo, Siyan Oyeweso on Friday called on Osun State government to establish a Research and Archive Bureau for easy documentation of the history of the State.

He made the call while delivering lecture at a guest platform organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Osun state council.

The event was put together to celebrate the state’s 30th anniversary with the theme: “Osun @ 30: the journey so far, the prospect and projection”.

Prof. Oyeweso said when established, the Bureau will provide a platform to document history of the state as well as offer people opportunity to get factual information about it.

The don who chronicled efforts of the founding fathers at ensuring the state creation as well as development strides of the successive administration noted that the state done well over the years.

He however encouraged the government to take advantage of the state’s strength in the area of Agriculture, mining, Culture and Tourism.

Speaking, the State Governor Gboyega Oyetola who was the special guest of honour at the event, assured people of the state of his administration’s commitment to revitalize the economy and nurture a society that works for all in line with the visions of the founding fathers.

He commended the media for its watchdog roles and support toward the development of the State by setting agenda for the government in building a virile and sustainable future for its people.

According to the Governor, “as an administrator, we are fully committed to building on the gains and labour of our past heroes. And we remain resolute in our determined quest to revitalize our economy and nurture a society that truly works for the good of all Osun citizens home and abroad”.

“I must at this juncture commend the labours of our past leaders, beginning from Retired General Leo Ajiborisa to my predecessor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola who variously stood in the saddle and provided direction for our people. It is certain that posterity will be kind to them all”.

“without any doubt, our state has indeed come a long way. We have, from that innocuous journey fired by the altruistic passion and patriotic zeal of our founding fathers, grown into a tree that shields our teeming citizens and offers hope of a brighter future for all.

“Over the years, we have confronted our worst fears and showed courage in the face of grave challenges, just as we have moved speedily into maturity and now reaching for the stars” Oyetola said.

The chairman, Osun NUJ, comrade Wasiu Ajadosun noted that journalists have been part of the success story of the State and will continue to perform their roles of social responsibility and agenda setting in the interest of all.