Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has praised the significant progress achieved by the Osun Development Association in addressing the state’s complex challenges.
The association, on Sunday, inaugurated its pioneer Council of Elders and honoured six founding members for their contributions to the state’s growth through ODA’s establishment.
At a grand reception and induction ceremony in Lagos, 18 new members were inducted into ODA, bringing the membership to 136 non-partisan Osun State indigenes.
Adeleke, represented by the Group Director of Oodua Investment Company Limited, Lai Oriowo, lauded ODA’s impactful role in the state, despite inheriting infrastructural deficits.He said despite inheriting more than 80 per cent infrastructural deficit from the immediate past administration of the state, his administration had ended half salary payment to workers.
“Within one and a half years in office, we have achieved what the previous administration could not attain in four years,” he said.
In his address as the Chairman of the occasion, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, pledged unwavering support to the ODA, emphasising the importance of fostering groundbreaking development initiatives to uplift the state’s indigenous population.
The event also honoured individuals such as Prof. Olu Aina, Chief Inaolaji Aboaba, Prince Tunde Ponnle, Lt. Gen. Alani Akinrinade, and Mrs Joanna Maduka, for their contributions.
The ODA Chairman, Dr Segun Aina, highlighted the association’s commitment to the state’s development since its inception in 1995. He mentioned the infrastructural development and advocacy efforts.
Describing ODA as a network of accomplished and selfless Osun State indigenes, Aina reiterated their collective dedication to supporting the state’s growth and development across various sectors, without seeking anything in return from the government.
The Director General of Development Agenda For Western Nigeria Seye Oyeleye, urged ODA to invest in nurturing the next generation of Osun indigenes to continue the founders’ legacy.
He said the theme of the event, ‘Beyond Rhetorics: Harnessing the potentials and opportunities for development and growth for Osun State,’ explained the need for collaboration between ODA and the state government to utilise resources effectively for prosperity.
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