We have laid a solid foundation for 50 years, says Aregbesola

Pledges better deal in last year
Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola yesterday said his administration had laid a solid foundation that would stand the test of time in the development of the state for the next 50 years.

He made this declaration in his statewide broadcast, in which he paid tributes to all stakeholders, while marking his seven-years as governor of the state.

He noted that several achievements of his administration are enduring legacies that will in years to come be a reference point in the state.

The governor attributed his government’s successes to the engagement of youths, provision of critical infrastructure, economic advancement among others, and assured that the next 365 days would be committed to greater improvement of the people’s welfare.

He, however, paid glowing tributes to the state workforce for their perseverance, sacrifice, diligence to duty and hard work, which had kept the government going in spite of the financial challenges.

A veteran labour leader in the state, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, yesterday said Aregbesola would pay all outstanding salaries and pension arrears in April next year.

Aregbesola added that his principle of Omoluabi Ethos has also impacted positively just as he stressed its importance in line with the glowing traits of the Yoruba.

“That investment has paid off. From the elders to school children, Osun people now conduct themselves with the consciousness of Omoluabi, in business transaction, interpersonal relations, warm reception of strangers and even examination conduct in schools.”

“We know the relevance of education in development. It is established wisdom that the acquired knowledge of today determines the future of the people, just as their knowledge base of yesterday is responsible for the state of things today,” he said.

Meanwhile, Aregbesola has also pledged to work tirelessly to take Osun State to higher heights and better the lot of the residents as he entered his last year in office.

He made the promise at the Osogbo Township Stadium during the grand finale of Calisthenics competition to mark the seventh year anniversary of his administration.

Aregbesola, who disclosed that 28,000 students had been trained for the Calisthenics display, said the exercise had improved the health of the students.

“We introduced this programme in 2012 and we have so far trained 28,000 students. We are inculcating the spirit of unity, teamwork and hard work in the lives of the students through Calisthenics. We are preparing them for a world beyond,” Aregbesola said.