Osun State Governor Adeleke Unveils Ambitious 2025 Infrastructure Plan Without Borrowing

In a bold move to advance infrastructure development in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced a comprehensive plan for 2025, emphasizing that his administration has not borrowed a single kobo to fund its projects. This statement, made during a recent unveiling of new infrastructure initiatives, underscores Adeleke’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while delivering on his promise to improve the lives of Osun residents. The plan, valued at N159 billion, includes projects spanning road construction, healthcare, and education, reflecting a strategic approach to sustainable development. This article explores the details of Adeleke’s 2025 vision, the funding mechanisms behind it, and its potential impact on Osun State as of March 12, 2025.

Adeleke’s No-Loan Policy: A Commitment to Prudence

Governor Adeleke has consistently highlighted his administration’s aversion to borrowing as a cornerstone of its financial strategy. During the unveiling event held at the Governor’s Office in Abere, he reiterated, “We have not borrowed a kobo to fund our projects.” This stance sets Osun State apart in a country where many state governments rely heavily on loans to finance infrastructure and operational costs. Adeleke attributes this achievement to careful financial planning, leveraging federal allocations, boosting internally generated revenue (IGR), and optimizing state resources.

The governor’s approach stems from a desire to avoid burdening future generations with debt while ensuring that Osun State lives within its means. He emphasized that the N159 billion infrastructure plan for 2025 will be funded through a combination of federal allocations, IGR, and special funds recovered from the federal government. This strategy, Adeleke argues, ensures economic stability and fosters local empowerment by keeping financial resources within the state.

Breakdown of the 2025 Infrastructure Plan

The 2025 infrastructure plan is a continuation of Adeleke’s efforts to transform Osun State’s physical and social landscape. With a total budget of N159.1 billion, the plan allocates funds across multiple sectors, with a significant focus on road development, healthcare, and education. Below is a detailed breakdown of some key projects:

• Road Construction and Rehabilitation (N101.8 billion):
  The lion’s share of the budget is dedicated to improving transportation infrastructure across the state. Notable projects include:
  • The N10.42 billion dualisation of Odo Ori Junction-Post Office Junction-Adeeke Junction, aimed at easing traffic congestion in key areas.
  • The N12.65 billion dualisation of Ila township road, enhancing connectivity in rural regions.
  • The N8.05 billion reconstruction of the Ijebu-Jesa-Ere-Ilahun-Ibokun road, improving access to communities.
  • The N10.89 billion Ada-Ibokun-Ilase-Idominasi road project, fostering economic activity in rural areas.
  • N5 billion for upgrading, lighting, and beautifying major roads and roundabouts in the state capital, Osogbo.
• Healthcare Improvements (N2.76 billion):
  Adeleke’s administration is prioritizing the renovation of 124 primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across the state. This initiative aims to enhance access to quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas, ensuring that residents benefit from improved medical facilities.
• Education Sector Upgrades (N1.98 billion):
  Education remains a key focus, with nearly N2 billion allocated for school renovations and construction. Specific projects include:
  • N50.2 million for the renovation of a school hall and pavilion at Ede High School, Ede.
  • N200 million for the renovation of Agbonran School of Science, Ede South.
  • N149.5 million for Oranmiyan Memorial Grammar School, Ile-Ife.
  • N137 million for classroom and hall renovations at Ogedengbe School of Science, Ilesa.

Additionally, Adeleke highlighted progress on inherited projects, such as the Osogbo-Iwo-Oyo State Boundary Road (N5.94 billion) and the Osogbo-Ikirun-Insha-Kwara State Boundary Road (N13.7 billion), which are nearing completion. These efforts demonstrate his commitment to not only initiating new projects but also ensuring the completion of those started by previous administrations.

Economic and Social Impact of the Plan

The 2025 infrastructure plan is designed to do more than just improve physical infrastructure; it aims to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty. Adeleke emphasized that every kobo spent on these projects will remain within Osun State, boosting the local economy. By prioritizing local contractors and suppliers, the administration is fostering economic empowerment and skill transfer among residents.

The focus on road infrastructure is expected to enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve access to markets, particularly in rural areas. The dualisation and reconstruction projects will reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and enhance safety, all of which are critical for economic development. Similarly, investments in healthcare and education are poised to improve human capital, ensuring that Osun residents have access to better medical care and educational opportunities.

Addressing Criticisms and Opposition Claims

Despite the ambitious plan, Adeleke’s administration has faced criticism from the opposition, particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has accused him of plunging Osun State into debt. In response, Adeleke and his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, have repeatedly debunked these claims, asserting that no loans have been taken since he assumed office in November 2022. The governor clarified that what some reports have labeled as loans are actually World Bank development financing inherited from previous administrations, managed through national frameworks like the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the National Economic Council.

Adeleke has challenged critics to fact-check his claims, pointing to the transparency of his administration’s financial management. He noted that the state’s infrastructure projects are funded through a special project account, ensuring accountability and efficient use of resources. This rebuttal underscores his commitment to maintaining a debt-free administration while delivering tangible results.

A Vision for Sustainable Development

Governor Adeleke’s unveiling of the 2025 infrastructure plan comes at a time when Osun State is navigating political and economic challenges. Following a recent face-off over local government leadership, Adeleke used the occasion to reaffirm his dedication to serving the people, stating, “I will not be distracted from my vowed commitment to serve the people of the state.” This resilience, coupled with his no-loan policy, positions him as a leader focused on sustainable development.

The plan aligns with Adeleke’s broader five-point agenda, which includes infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. By refusing to borrow, he is setting a precedent for fiscal discipline that other states may look to emulate. Moreover, his emphasis on completing inherited projects demonstrates a pragmatic approach to governance, ensuring continuity and maximizing the impact of public investments.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for Progress

As of March 12, 2025, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s announcement that “we did not borrow a kobo to fund projects” resonates as a powerful statement of intent. The N159 billion infrastructure plan for 2025 is a testament to his administration’s ability to achieve ambitious goals without compromising financial stability. By focusing on roads, healthcare, and education, Adeleke is addressing critical needs while fostering economic growth and improving quality of life in Osun State.

For residents and observers searching for updates on Osun State’s development, keywords such as “Adeleke 2025 plan,” “Osun infrastructure projects,” “no-loan policy Osun,” and “Ademola Adeleke governance” are central to understanding this initiative. As the projects unfold over the coming year, their success will likely serve as a benchmark for evaluating Adeleke’s leadership and his vision for a prosperous, debt-free Osun State.