By John Dike Osogbo
As Osun State gears up for the 2026 gubernatorial election, a powerful coalition of Artisans, Traders, and Market Women from all Local Government Areas across the state is set to formally endorse His Excellency, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for a second term in office—and beyond.
Governor Adeleke’s administration has been widely praised for its commitment to people-centered governance. Notably, he has made significant progress in clearing the long-standing backlog of half-salary arrears left by the previous APC-led government. This move has brought much-needed relief to civil servants and catalyzed economic growth, directly benefiting traders, artisans, and market women throughout the state.
Despite the ongoing seizure of local government allocations by the APC-led federal government since January—an action taken in defiance of several court rulings—Governor Adeleke has remained steadfast in the regular payment of workers’ salaries. His administration continues to push forward with critical infrastructure and development projects, safeguarding economic stability and upholding the dignity of the state workforce.
The Governor’s ambitious infrastructural drive is reshaping Osun’s future. Groundbreaking projects such as the construction of overhead bridges across the three senatorial districts—the first in the state’s history—are transforming the transportation landscape. These are complemented by major road works, healthcare improvements, and grassroots development efforts.
The widely acclaimed Light Up Osun Project has extended trading hours into the night, directly boosting economic activity and providing added security and comfort for traders and market women across Osun.
With these visible and impactful achievements, stakeholders across the state have declared Thursday, September 11, 2026, as a historic day to endorse Governor Adeleke for re-election. This declaration will be made during a special endorsement rally organized by the People First Movement (PFM).
PFM is a non-partisan coalition of well-meaning Nigerians from diverse sectors who are committed to supporting leaders that prioritize the welfare of the people. Guided by its core belief—that leadership must put the people first—the movement has conducted a comprehensive review of Governor Adeleke’s stewardship since he assumed office in November 2022.
Following this review, the People First Movement has unanimously endorsed Governor Adeleke, citing his outstanding performance and unwavering commitment to inclusive governance.
> “For us at PFM, this decision goes beyond politics—it is about safeguarding the progress already made, deepening development, and ensuring Osun State remains on a steady path of people-first governance.”
