
04/08/2025
Governor Adeleke: Championing Youth Inclusion in Osun State
Since the creation of Osun State in 1991, successive administrations; military and civilian have made various contributions to the development of the state. While we acknowledge and respect the efforts of past leaders, it is important to recognize and celebrate the unique achievements of the current administration, particularly in the area of youth engagement.
Politics, at its core, is a service to humanity. It must prioritize the needs of the people, especially those at the grassroots. In this regard, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke’s administration stands out for its deliberate and impactful inclusion of young people in governance and public service.
Historically, Osun has never witnessed youth engagement on this scale. Aside from the administration of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, no other government has embraced the youth as actively as Governor Adeleke. However, Adeleke’s model differs in both depth and benefit; it is inclusive, sustainable, and empowering.
Youth constitute the largest demographic in both Nigeria and Osun State. Therefore, any administration that seeks long-term peace, stability, and development must design special, well-structured policies for youth empowerment. Governor Adeleke’s government has clearly understood this imperative, and it reflects in policy direction, program implementation, and appointments.
From the outset, the Adeleke administration made youth inclusion a central pillar of governance. A review of political appointments since he assumed office in 2022 shows that young people occupy the majority of positions; most of the Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, and Board Chairmen are indigenous youths, a bold and unprecedented move in the history of the state. In contrast to previous administrations where youths were ignored, and most that were appointed were from Lagos; today’s Osun politics embraces indigenous youths and empowerment at grassroot.
One of the most notable milestones in this journey is the establishment of the IMOLE Youth Corps, which successfully engaged 10,000 young people across all 332 wards in the state. Beyond just recruitment, the program offers competitive remuneration; surpassing that of past administrations and positions the youth as key contributors to Osun’s socioeconomic development.
This youth-first approach of Adeleke's also extends to critical sectors such as agriculture, ICT, cooperatives, empowerment programs, and the Ministry of Youth. Persons with special needs have also been included, particularly through the Ministry of Agriculture, and the provision of mobility aids is part of the government’s inclusive welfare policy.
Under Governor Adeleke’s leadership, the government is not only fulfilling campaign promises but also laying a strong foundation for future generations. The administration has made it clear that youth development is not an afterthought; it is a priority. More initiatives are in the pipeline to further expand opportunities for young people across the state.
In sum, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s leadership reflects the principles of true democracy and people-centered governance. It is responsive, responsible, and rooted in equity. The youth of Osun State are not just beneficiaries, they are active participants in shaping a prosperous future.
Comrade Abdul-Jeleel Samakin Abiodun
Odeomu, Ayedade Local Government
Osun West Senatorial District
Osun State