By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for deeper collaboration between government and citizen-led organisations, stressing that strong community institutions and empowered teachers are critical to inclusive governance and sustainable development.
He made the call on Thursday in Osogbo during the foundation-laying ceremony of the Osun Development Association (ODA) House at the association’s secretariat in Oke-Pupa.
Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, Adeleke described the ODA House project as a practical demonstration of how organised community groups can complement government efforts.
“The government alone cannot do it all. Development requires the active participation of organised citizens and credible community platforms,” the governor said.
He described the Osun Development Association as a trusted platform for mobilising Osun indigenes at home and in the diaspora, noting that the association has contributed significantly to education, youth engagement and social cohesion across the state.
According to him, the ODA House is more than a physical structure.“This project is a symbol of unity, vision and commitment to the progress of Osun State,” Adeleke said, adding that a permanent secretariat would strengthen the association’s capacity for coordination, dialogue, planning and structured engagement with government and development partners.
The governor highlighted his administration’s focus on economic stabilisation, workers’ welfare, infrastructure development and investments in education, healthcare, agriculture and security
“Our commitment to the 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.
Adeleke assured the association 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.
“Through collective action, we will continue to move Osun State forward,” he said.
Earlier, a founding member of the association, Prof. Olu Aina, said the event also marked the launch of a teachers’ renewal programme aimed at strengthening education in the state.
“There are two major focuses today: the ODA House project and the teachers’ renewal programme, which is designed to enhance teaching capacity,” he said.
Chairman of the association, Dr. Segun Aina, said the large turnout at the event reflected widespread support for ODA’s initiatives.
“The level of attendance has given us confidence that the projects we have planned will succeed,” he said, disclosing that the association hopes to complete the ODA House within one year, subject to available funding.
He explained that the teachers’ renewal programme was prioritised because of its long-term 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,” Dr. Aina said.
