Osun: My achievements in technology sector development pacesetting — Adeleke

Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, on Thursday declared that his administration’s achievements in the technology sector are pace-setting and impeccable.

The governor made the assertion while reviewing his government’s performance before technology professionals at the maiden edition of the Osun Tech Festival held at the WOCDIF Event Centre, Osogbo.

According to him, when his administration assumed office in November 2022, the state lacked a clear technology policy and digital development framework.

“When we came on board, Osun was like an analogue establishment. There was no tech policy nor tech development structures.

“We found nothing in the area of the digital economy. Worse still, fibre optics development was not on the table.

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“From November 2022 when we assumed office, we made a firm decision. Technology would not be an accessory to governance; it would be the foundation,” he said.

Adeleke noted that his government prioritised digital infrastructure, stressing that connectivity remains the backbone of innovation and inclusion.

“At the dawn of this administration, we recognised that a sustainable digital ecosystem begins with infrastructure. Without connectivity, there is no innovation. Without access, there is no inclusion.

“We therefore developed new policies and legislations. Osun now has a state ICT policy, a tech innovation policy, alongside the domestication of the Nigeria Startup Act. We now have a Governor’s Advisory Council on ICT and Digital Economy,” he stated.

The governor added that his administration reviewed the operating environment to enable infrastructure providers expand services, especially to underserved communities.

Speaking on digital governance, Adeleke said reforms were introduced to improve service delivery and ease of doing business in the state.

He listed initiatives such as the Certificate of Occupancy in 45 Days programme, digitised C of O verification, the Osun Investment Portal, an automated payroll system for state and local governments, and digitised State of Origin certification.

In the area of public safety, the governor disclosed that the Emergency Call Centre has been reactivated, with residents able to access services through the toll-free number 293.

He added that the Osun Safe City Initiative would drive CCTV deployment in strategic locations, while the Osun Smart Resident ID and Imole WiFi are aimed at strengthening planning, service delivery and public internet access.

On emerging technologies, Adeleke said the state is developing a framework for Artificial Intelligence and blockchain deployment, noting that the State Digital Protection Act and a proposed State AI Act are before the House of Assembly.

He further announced the launch of AlphaStart Hub, described as the state’s first government-owned founders’ hub, adding that three additional hubs would be established across the senatorial districts, with headquarters at the proposed Osun Digital City.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Maruf Ayofe, commended the governor for providing the policy framework and enabling environment for the tech sector to thrive.

“This festival is more than an event; it is a bold statement that Osun State believes in its people, especially our youths, innovators and digital creators,” he said.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation, Science and Technology, Azeez Badmus, stressed that technology remains central to development.

“Technology is no longer optional for development. It is the engine that drives modern economies,” he said, adding that the administration has prioritised broadband expansion, digital governance, youth empowerment and data-driven planning.

He maintained that key public services have been automated, land administration streamlined, investment platforms moved online and payroll systems digitised to enhance transparency and efficiency.

“Technology is saving time, and time saves lives,” he added.