Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Saturday joined dignitaries to honour the new Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, during his coronation ceremony in Ilesa. At the event, the governor outlined his administration’s developmental strides across Ijesaland and paid tribute to both the new monarch and his predecessor.

Addressing guests at the Owa palace, Governor Adeleke described Oba Haastrup as a distinguished Nigerian and one of Ijesaland’s most accomplished leaders. He also paid homage to the late Owa, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, acknowledging his legacy as a respected scholar, businessman, and modernizer of Ijesaland.

“Late Oba Aromolaran was a father figure and the architect of modern Ijesaland. His successor, Oba Haastrup, is a man of loyalty, patriotism, and significant achievements in the business world,” Adeleke said.

He noted that Oba Haastrup had once served as Deputy Governor to his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, the first civilian governor of Osun State, and demonstrated unwavering loyalty during that time. He also praised the monarch’s philanthropic contributions and leadership qualities.

Governor Adeleke used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to the development of Ijesaland, listing key achievements including:

The transformation of Ilesa into a university town, with over 50 accredited courses at the University of Ilesa.

Approval of the General Hospital, Ilesa, as the teaching hospital for the university, positioning the town as a hub for medical excellence.

Near completion of the 12-kilometre Ereja Square–Brewery–Express dual carriageway, aimed at opening up Ilesa for commerce and tourism.

Reforms in the mining sector to curb illegal operations and environmental degradation, particularly relevant to mineral-rich Ijesaland.

Osun State’s equity stake in Thor Exploration, the operator of the Segilola Gold Project, to ensure better returns from natural resources.

He also emphasized the government’s readiness to partner with the new monarch on developmental initiatives through public-private collaborations.

“Our efforts are not limited to Ijesaland. We are replicating similar progress in Ifeland, Osogboland, Iwoland, Igbominaland, Edeland, and Iragbijiland,” Adeleke stated.

In a related development, Governor Adeleke lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the reconstruction of the Ibadan-Ife-Ilesa expressway, describing it as a crucial intervention for the region’s economy.

“The poor state of that road has severely impacted economic activities in Osun and surrounding states. This timely action by Mr. President is commendable,” he added.