KIDNAPPED ELDER TITILAYO OWOLABI REGAINS FREEDOM AFTER FOUR WEEKS
The people of Ora-Igbomina have announced the release of Elder Titilayo Owolabi of Ora, who was kidnapped over four weeks ago and held by suspected bandits.
In a press statement issued on behalf of the community, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, OON, the Asiwaju of Ora-Igbomina, expressed gratitude to God for the safe return of the elder statesman, describing him as a patriot and a worthy senior citizen.
The community also appreciated the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, and the state government for their support and assistance throughout the period of captivity, while expressing confidence that the government would continue to strengthen security and expand government presence, particularly in boundary areas of the state.
Commendation was extended to the Police, the Military, and other security and intelligence agencies for their efforts and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property across the country.
Ora-Igbomina residents further acknowledged the role of both the mass and social media for bringing the incident to national attention despite the community’s remote location.
Traditional rulers in Ifedayo Local Government Area were also praised, particularly the Orangun and the Asaoni, for their concern, support, and intervention. The statement emphasized that unity remains the community’s greatest strength.
The Akesin, chiefs, pastors, imams, and citizens of Ora-Igbomina were equally commended for their prayers, solidarity, and collective efforts during the difficult period.
The statement concluded with a call for continued unity and self-reliance, stressing that community cooperation remains essential to addressing shared challenges.
Signed Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, OON, Asiwaju of Ora-Igbomina
● AS OSUN EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION AS TOP RANKING STATE IN EDUCATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL COMPETITIVENESS
OSOGBO – 12/01/2026 – Osunstate.gov.ng
Osun State has again earned national recognition as the Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, is set to receive the BusinessDay Award 2026 in honour of the state’s outstanding performance in Education and Human Capital Competitiveness under his administration.
The award will be presented at the 2026 States Competitiveness and Investment Readiness Awards (SCIRA) holding in Abuja, placing Osun on the national stage for reforms that are already being felt in schools, communities, and households across the state.
The recognition follows a detailed assessment by BusinessDay Newspapers, which irrefutably ranked Osun among the top-performing states in education delivery, youth development, skills readiness, and long-term human capital planning. The evaluation reflects practical improvements at the grassroots level, including better learning environments, improved teachers’ welfare in public schools, renewed attention to vocational and technical skills, and deliberate policies that prioritise young people.
It is worthy of note that across Osun’s urban centres and rural communities, the impact of these reforms is visibly evident. From rehabilitated classrooms to strengthened teacher support systems and expanded youth empowerment initiatives, the Adeleke administration’s focus on education is translating into real opportunities for students, artisans, and young professionals.
Speaking on the recognition, Governor Adeleke described the award as a collective achievement of the people of Osun, noting that development must be measured by how policies improve everyday lives.
“This recognition belongs to the people of Osun, because my leadership is people-centric, and our government is working for the ordinary citizen by investing in education and human capacity-building. When our children learn better and our youths acquire skills, the future of Osun is secure,” the Governor said.
Community leaders and education stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as further proof that Osun is moving in the right direction under a leadership that understands grassroots needs, and places human development above political showmanship.
From Osogbo to Ilesa, through Ikire, and into the nooks and crannies of the Central, East, and West Senatorial Districts, Governor Adeleke is proving to the people of Osun that when leadership works, the people feel it.
The BusinessDay Award 2026 reinforces Osun State’s growing reputation as a state where governance connects directly with the people, and where investment in education is treated with utmost priority. Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke is not just winning awards for Osun; he is winning trust and a clear vote of confidence from the people.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.
IMOLE FREE TRAIN RETURNS THOUSANDS OF PASSENGERS BACK TO LAGOS
The Imole Free Train Service, put in place by the Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has returned thousands of passengers from Osogbo Train Station back to Iddo Terminus, Lagos on Saturday.
Some of the passengers with their baggage had arrived at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park Osogbo as early as 7:00 am in the morning to board the train.
Commending the Osun State Governor for such a wonderful initiative, the passengers expressed happiness and satisfaction over their experiences over the train and the transformational gesture of Governor Ademola Adeleke, in every nook and cranny of Osun State.
While speaking, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo who bidded the passengers farewell to their varying destinations of Ibadan, Abeokuta and Lagos respectively, commended the Governor for the provision of the Imole Free Train Ride.
According to the Commissioner, “the Governor of Osun State, Sen. Dr. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, in his magnanimity, despite the paucity of funds, made it possible. Both coming all the way from Iddo Terminus, Lagos to Osogbo for Christmas and New Year celebrations”.
“This morning, the passengers, in their thousands with happiness and appreciation to Mr. Governor, have been conveyed back to their base”, he said.
“The period of their stay within the State has given them the opportunity to access the transformations that are taking place across Osun State”.
“We have gotten their feedback, it is encouraging His Excellency to continue. The people, who are the direct beneficiaries of Governor Adeleke’s giant strides in every sector of the economy are happy, and they are solidly behind him for his reelection bid, to continue in office till 2030”, the Commissioner said.
The Imole Free Train initiative was anchored by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Osun State.
The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Osun State, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who attended his Christmas celebration event, held in his Country Home on the 2025 Boxing Day.
This was contained in a special message by the Commissioner, which was made available to newsmen in Osogbo on Sunday.
Dr. Jenyo appreciated the spirit of love, peace and harmony in all the critical stakeholders of Ila-Orangun community, who attended the celebration of JESUS CHRIST.
Both the politicians and the community leaders in attendance have made a great statement of love, unity and progress that will resonate across the community, for a very long time.
According to the Commissioner, “I sincerely appreciate all those who attended my Christmas celebration event. I recognized the presence of critical stakeholders of Ila-Orangun community (Politicians and Community Leaders) who showed up in the spirit of love, peace and progress”.
“I sincerely appreciate those who thonged my country home, from outside Ila-Orangun and Osun State for the celebration. You travelled from your varying Local Governments to honour GOD, HE will also honour you in return, Amen”.
“Our LORD JESUS CHRIST will continue to bless and honour you all and grant us all abundant life to celebrate many more Christmas together, AMEN. Thank you all and l wish you happy new year in advance”, he said.
Signed: Rev. Bunmi Jenyo Ph.D, Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Osun State. 28th December, 2025.
IMOLE FREE TRAIN SERVICE IS GOVERNOR ADELEKE’S WORTHY ASSISTANCE – PASSENGERS
Passengers of the Imole Free Train Service, an initiative of the present administration under the leadership of the Asiwaju of Edeland, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke have commended the Governor, describing the gesture as a worthy assistance.
Governor Ademola Adeleke was also applauded for his passionate leadership which has transformed Osun State citizenry in all the strata of the economy.
This was as the holidaymakers reunited with their family members, friends and loved ones in the early hours on the Christmas Eve, at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo on Wednesday.
Welcoming the travellers on behalf of the State Governor, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo expressed happiness for the hitch-free journey of the train, despite delays.
Flanked by the management of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Jenyo who interacted with some of the passengers charged them to use their time in Osun to access the transformation agenda of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
He lauded Governor Adeleke’s government for its resilience and consistency of the Free Train Ride for all the citizens of Osun State, in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States who wanted to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones in Osun State.
According to the Commissioner, the initiative has brought unprecedented financial reliefs to homes of the thousands of passengers, who benefited from the Imole Free Train Ride.
According to him, “I want to use this opportunity to appreciate His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke for this Free Train Ride initiative. Omo Balogun has done it again. His love, passion and mission for the masses cannot be underestimated”.
“You can see the radiating joy in the eyes of the thousands of passengers and their people, who have been waiting to receive them”, the Commissioner said.
Some of the passengers charged the Governor to shun all manners of distraction and continue in the same spirit of promoting love, happiness and the well-being of the people of Osun State.
“We love him. Mr. Governor has done well, he continues to make us happy and proud. He has transformed our dear Osun State, we will continue to support him”, one Mr. Adeyinka Oloyede said.
The Imole Free Train Service continues on Tuesday 30th December, 2025 when it will convey passengers from Iddo Terminus, Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States to Osogbo, the Osun State Capital.
GOVERNOR ADELEKE LAUDS ARMY FOR CONTAINING BANDITRY IN OSUN AS ARMY CHIEF GRACE 89 REGULAR RECRUITS PASSING OUT PARADE IN OSOGBO
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has charged officers and men of the Nigerian Army to be dedicated to the protection of teritorial integrity of Nigeria, describing the Army as the heartbeat of the Nation.
Governor Adeleke stated this today when he joined the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and other senior military officers at the maiden Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake of the Nigerian Army, held at the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
Senator Adeleke while saluting the military for it’s decades of service in the protection of the nation and her citizens said “today’s event is a reminder of the critical role of the military in the protection of the territorial integrity of Nigeria. At the heart of military tradition is the unbending patriotism and loyalty to the constitution and to the fatherland”.
The Governor appealed to political leaders in the country to always apply political solution to address national situation saying there’s the need to foster national cohesion at the national and subnational levels.
While commending President Bola Tinubu for his giant strides to develop Nigeria, Senator Adeleke appealed to the President to “always be open in accomodating multiple, diverse interests as we interface the electoral process.
“For us in Osun State, we are open to political solution to our challenges and we will go out of our ways to seek peace and harmony in the political process” Governor Adeleke assured the President. This he said will reduce political tension and enable the security services to be focused on their traditional responsibilities.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in Osun State, stressing that sustained peace and security are vital for social stability and economic growth across the state.
He sought the support of the military and especially the Army to contain infiltration of bandits from Kwara State saying the threat is real and “we strongly believe the ongoing operation will contain the threats”, he opined.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, charged the newly inducted soldiers to uphold loyalty, discipline, and professionalism in the discharge of their duties. He reminded them of the high expectations placed on the Nigerian Army and urged the recruits to remain committed to the core values of integrity, patriotism, and respect for constituted authority as they begin their military careers.
The parade marked the successful completion of months of rigorous military training by the new recruits, who showcased drills, physical fitness, and combat skills, reflecting their readiness to serve the nation.
The event attracted top military commanders, government officials, traditional rulers, families of the recruits, and other invited guests, highlighting the importance of the ceremony in strengthening civil military relations and national cohesion.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor
BUNMI JENYO CONGRATULATES ILA LG FC FOR LIFTING IMOLE YOUTH TROPHY
The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Osun State, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo has congratulated Ila Local Government Football Club for lifting the Trophy in the just concluded Maiden edition of Imole Youth Cup.
The Commissioner who hails from Ila Local Government specifically applauded the champion which defeated its Isokan counterpart with 1 – 0 win at the finals, held at Ataoja School of Science, Osogbo.
According to the Commissioner, “I congratulate every member of the Ila LG FC for this victory. Well done for crossing all the hurdles. This is a sweet success, not only for the team but also for the entire community. I am very proud of you all, you are indeed the future of the community”.
“You have demonstrated a strong determination to excel, thus this unprecedented success as the overall best at the maiden edition of the Imole Youth Cup tournament. Once again, congratulations”, the Commissioner said.
The people of Iba in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Osun State will on Saturday, 27th December, 2025 celebrate the 2025 Iba Day.
The event which is celebrated annually will bring together all the sons and daughters of the ancient town from different parts of the world.
A statement issued by Bamigbola Gbolagunte, the National Publicity Secretary, Iba Descendants Union (IDU), which is the umbrella body of all indigenes of the town indicates that the celebration will hold at the Iba palace square by 10am.
Dignitaries from all parts of the country, especially Osun State including political office holders, captains of industry, traditional rulers and religious leaders are expected to grace the occasion.
The Eburu of Iba, Oba (Prof) Adekunle Adeogun Okunoye Oyedeji 11 who is the royal host will host traditional rulers and other eminent personalities at the event.
The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke is the Special Guest of honour, while the Akinla of Erin-Ijesha, Oba (Dr) Isaac Adeyeba Ayeni Okin Olori 11 will be the royal father of the day.
The statement enjoins all indigenes of the town, friends of the town and all invited guests to honour the community with their presence at the ceremony.
CHINESE INVESTORS HAIL OSUN INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH AS ADELEKE, OWA OF IJESALAND SPEAK ON INDUSTRIALIZATION PLANS
OSOGBO- 17/12/2025
A group of Chinese Investors from mainland China and Hong Kong on Tuesday evening applauded the rapid infrastructural growth across Osun towns and cities, describing the development as “a booster to industrialisation, economic growth and communal prosperity”
The investors numbering 22 from various sectors such as water processing, food processing to electric vehicles conveyed their review through the head of the team, Nancy Chi of Yuanfar International at a dinner hosted at the Government House and attended by Governor Ademola Adeleke, his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup among others.
The leader of the delegation speaks further: “There is a saying in Chinese language. If you want to build and spread wealth, if you want economic growth, build roads. That is the secret of China’s development. The Osun governor understands this reality.
“Most Chinese Investors prefer Abuja, Ogun and Lagos as investment destinations but the story is changing. In the past, our people hardly talked about Osun for investment. But now, Osun is fast becoming the investment point among Chinese investors. The reasons are the good work Mr Governor is doing.
“We have gone round the state and we see multiple constructions ongoing. We commend Mr Governor for these good developments. Osun is the heartland of Yoruba people. Chinese Investors are attracted here. Your state is peaceful with beautiful landscapes.
“That is why we are here. Our team is made of investors from various sectors such as food processing, water packaging and treatment, mining, electric vehicles, agro-equipments among others. We are impressed with the support from the state government to facilitate the take off of our investment in the state’s free trade zone and others. Beyond the deals between the state and our team, the Hong Kong government through its investment agency will soon invite the governor for an official visit. The investment agency will also visit Osun state in 2026”, Ms Chi told the gathering.
The Owa Obokun flanked by his wife, Olori Vicky Ayodele Haastrup, the Executive Chairman of ENI limited and serial investor and Ajirowa of Ijeshaland, Alhaji Lateef Bakare, described the Adeleke family as the Kennedys of Nigeria with deep interest in economic development as a foundation for successful governance of a state.
According to the imperial majesty, who recalled his days as the Deputy Governor of Osun state, said the Chinese investors are interested in setting up industrial plants at Ilesa and other parts of the state, affirming that “these investors are ready for business.
“The investors we have here are ready to set up operations. They have ambition to build a China Town, a computer village in addition to plans for solar powered Tricycle plants. The investors are deeply interested in the Osun State Free Trade Zone. I commend Mr Governor for providing the enabling environment for business to thrive in the state”, the Royal father affirmed in his address.
Addressing the investors and the royal delegation, Governor Adeleke appreciated the Chinese team for their positive appraisal of his administration, recapping the many initiatives of his administration to reduce the inherited multisectoral infrastructure deficit.
“I note with deep appreciation the acknowledgement of our contributions to develop Osun’s dilapidated infrastructures. I am particularly happy about that Chinese proverb which emphasised the importance of infrastructure for wealth creation and economic development of any community or state. Our government has reduced the Osun infra deficit from over 80 percent to about 40 percent within three years.
“Our government has made it easy for investors to invest in the state by easing the processing of certificates of Occupancy to 45 days. As noted by the Commissioner for Commerce, we have harmonised tax collection to remove multiple taxation. We revived the Osun Free Trade zone that was abandoned by the previous government. Dear Chinese friends and other investors.
“Osun is open for investment. I am glad to announce here that our government has secured accreditation for the study of Chinese language at the University of Ilesa. We mean business in our bid to attract investment from Asia powerhouse. Hurry and invest here”, the governor told the businessmen from China.
The event was attended by members of the state executive council and several Royal fathers from Ijeshaland.
Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.
GOV. ADELEKE, ORANGUN OF OKE ILA, NBC PRESIDENT, OTHERS TO GRACE KIDVARC SCHOOLS ANNIVERSARY
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, the Orangun of Oke Ila-Orangun in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State and the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev Israel Adelani Akanji are set to grace the 40th anniversary of the KIDVARC Nursery and Primary School and the 30th anniversary of KIDVARC High School, Iree, Osun State.
The Proprietor of the school, Prince Oyeyemi Omotoso dropped the hint while addressing a press conference to herald the anniversary celebration of the schools founded by renowned educationist and pioneer Secretary to the Osun State Government, Dr Samuel Oyedokun Omotoso.
Other top dignitaries expected to grace the occasion include members of the Osun State Executive Council, traditional rulers from across Osun State and the Provost of the Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun where the founder of the school served as the pioneer Provost among other influential people from across the country.
Giving a breakdown of activities for the anniversary celebration, the Proprietor said the occasion will also be used to mark the 15th remembrance anniversary of the founder of the school who was until his death one of the foremost educationist produced by the state.
While acknowledging the support of the alumni of the school, he stated that the school stands top among others in the state as the vision of its founder was kept even years after his demise.
He disclosed that some laudable projects executed by the alumni of the school will also be commissioned during the anniversary, while the grand finale of the anniversary will hold on Saturday, 13th December at the Leisure Spring hotel, Osogbo where quality time will be dedicated to appreciating God for the past years and a remembrance service will also hold in honour of late Dr Omotoso who founded the schools.
Reeling the achievements of the school in the last 40 years, Omotoso said “our greatest achievement as a school is the kind of quality and standard of education that we dish out at all levels of study. The schools have won so many prizes, laurels and awards in the past and till date we are still bagging awards at local government, state and even national levels.”
“The schools have produced many first class products who are doing excellently well in their chosen careers. Hardly is there any field of human endeavors where our products are not doing well. In banking, medical, accounting, engineering, law, journalism, teaching, business and other fields of human endeavors our products can be found and they are excelling there to the glory of God. Also, the performances of our current students are impressive and they have continued to make us proud in their academics and extra curricular activities,” he added.
Site Title 