By Bamikole Omishore
“Great dancers are not great because of their technique; they are great because of their passion.” — Martha Graham
In the world of dance, few have mastered the art of movement with the grace and intensity of Martha Graham, whose choreography was marked by a profound understanding of human expression and transformation.
Graham’s dances were not mere performances; they were powerful reflections of the human condition, a tapestry woven with raw emotion, rhythm, and purpose.
In many ways, the leadership of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke mirrors this very essence of dance—dynamic, passionate, and forward-moving.
Governor Adeleke has taken the helm of Osun State with a zeal and vision reminiscent of a choreographed performance, where each step is deliberate, and every movement contributes to a greater narrative of transformation.
His approach to governance is not merely about policy execution but about creating an environment where the people of Osun are empowered, uplifted, and equipped to thrive.
Considering the precarious state of Osun when he took office on November 27, 2022, Adeleke had to make every step deliberate and tailored for the development of the people.
Much like Martha Graham’s focus on the expression of the individual within a broader context, Governor Adeleke’s leadership shines in its ability to address the unique needs of Osun State’s diverse communities while aligning them with the collective goal of the state’s development.
He has taken the pulse of Osun and, like a skilled dancer attuned to the rhythm of the music, set a course for the state that resonates with empathy and pragmatism.
His impact is tangible, and his passion for the people is infectious.
His administration has not shied away from addressing pressing issues such as infrastructural deficits, educational reform, and economic revitalization.
Just as Martha Graham redefined modern dance by introducing innovative techniques, Governor Adeleke has redefined governance in Osun by implementing progressive policies, modernizing systems, and fostering an environment where growth is inevitable.
Education: Building Foundations for the Future
One of the cornerstones of Adeleke’s governance is his focus on improving the education sector. Under his leadership:
631 classrooms and offices have been rehabilitated across 125 basic schools.
323 new classrooms, halls, and laboratories have been constructed in 96 schools.
New toilets, boreholes, motorized water wells, and perimeter fences have been installed in several schools.
The Governor has also upgraded the Educational Management Information System (EMIS) in local education authorities to enhance data collection and management.
His administration has sponsored 200 secondary school teachers and 20 ICT experts to train on remote learning platforms and trained 1,004 teachers in cooperative learning strategies.
Furthermore, he initiated the recruitment of 5,000 new teachers to address vacancies in public schools.
For tertiary education, Adeleke has invested significantly in infrastructure.
He completed a 52-office complex at Osun State University (UNIOSUN), becoming the first governor since 2011 to execute a project at the institution.
He also funded the construction of the first student hostel at the University of Ilesa (UNILESA), approved the permanent employment of over 230 temporary staff, and supported the training of 137 academic staff at the Osun State College of Technology.
Additionally, he revived the indigenous bursary scheme, providing financial support to over 3,100 students and N105,000 to Osun indigenes in law schools across Nigeria.
Healthcare: Precision and Care
Governor Adeleke’s healthcare initiatives reflect the precision and care of a master choreographer.
Upon taking office, he inherited a healthcare system in disarray. He launched the Imole Surgical and Medical Outreach, which provided free medical treatment to over 50,000 residents, addressing conditions such as cataracts, hernias, diabetes, hypertension, and malaria.
Long-term healthcare improvements include:
The rehabilitation of 345 primary healthcare centres (PHCs), with 200 already upgraded to include 24/7 power and water facilities.
A regular supply of medications to these centres.
Partnerships with development organizations to provide essential medical equipment.
Adeleke has also expanded health insurance coverage to include informal sector workers and senior citizens, ensuring comprehensive access to healthcare for all, including individuals with disabilities.
Infrastructure: Laying the Groundwork for Growth
Infrastructure development has been another focal point of Adeleke’s administration. The state’s infrastructure, particularly roads, was in dire need of attention when he assumed office. In the past two years, his administration has constructed several roads and embarked on additional projects, including:
The Oke-Fia overhead bridge in Osogbo.
The first-ever overhead bridge in Ile-Ife.
The Akoda-Baptist-Oke Gada dual carriageway in Ede.
These projects are expected to improve traffic flow, facilitate transportation, and spur economic growth.
Adeleke has also prioritized rural connectivity through Osun State’s rejoining of the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAAMP-3), which focuses on improving rural road networks to enhance trade and access to essential services.
A Vision for Sustainable Development
Governor Adeleke’s initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A highlight is the Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Estate, a modern and resilient community development project. His commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education) is evident in the creation of the Alternative School for Girls, ensuring education for those who would otherwise be left behind.
Leadership with Inclusivity
Perhaps most importantly, Governor Adeleke’s leadership is marked by inclusivity and unity. Just as a dance troupe requires each member to work in harmony, Adeleke has fostered a collective purpose in Osun, ensuring every citizen plays a role in the state’s progress.
Conclusion
Governor Ademola Adeleke has brought a new rhythm to Osun State—one driven by passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
Much like Martha Graham’s transformative choreography that redefined modern dance, Adeleke’s governance has redefined leadership in Osun, promising progress, unity, and a brighter future for all its citizens.
•Omishore is a proud son of Osun State, writing from Ile-Ife•
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