Osun State’s recent revenue increase has become a key issue in the gubernatorial race, with candidates presenting different strategies to convert federal funds into sustainable economic development before the upcoming election.
A town hall debate on Arise News highlighted the opposing views in the state, where monthly federal allocations rose from about N3.5 billion to between N17 billion and N20 billion. The change, tied to the removal of petrol subsidies, allowed candidates to propose new spending plans while revealing disagreements over whether to expand public-sector employment or encourage private investment.
Agro-industry vs. civil service jobs
Munirudeen Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress candidate, stated that Osun can no longer depend on federal transfers to support its economy, which relies heavily on civil service jobs. Using his experience as a former state finance commissioner and managing director of the Osun State Investment Company, he advocated for a shift toward agro-allied industries and private funding.
He noted that the state now receives at least N17 to N20 billion monthly, providing an opportunity to reduce recurrent spending and invest in productive sectors. His proposal focuses on agricultural processing, backward integration, and improving the business environment to attract external capital.
Najeem Salaam, representing the African Democratic Congress, presented a different strategy. He promised to employ 20,000 civil servants within his first 100 days, covering education, healthcare, and other areas. He identified unreliable electricity as a major barrier to economic activity and pledged 24-hour power statewide under the Electricity Act 2023, which permits states to engage in power generation and distribution.
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Salaam assured residents that if elected, the state would have uninterrupted electricity.
Adeleke’s infrastructure record under scrutiny
Governor Ademola Adeleke, running for re-election, highlighted his administration’s infrastructure efforts as proof of progress. He mentioned completing over 350 kilometers of roads, with another 160 under construction, along with dualized highways and new bridges linking communities. Healthcare and education were also central to his campaign.
The governor said his government had upgraded more than 200 primary healthcare centers, adding solar power and other improvements. In agriculture, he pointed to the distribution of tractors, seedlings, and farming tools. On education, he argued that his administration had raised Osun’s national ranking, though opponents questioned the extent of these gains.
The debate also revealed disagreements over teacher shortages. Oyebamiji claimed the state needs 28,000 more teachers, calling education essential for development. Adeleke’s team responded that progress had been made in the sector, though exact figures remain disputed.
These proposals reflect a key tension in Osun’s economy: whether to focus on government-led spending or shift toward private-sector growth. Since federal transfers still cover most of the state’s wage bill, the election outcome may depend on which approach voters prefer.
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For residents, the increased revenue offers a chance to escape years of financial strain—but only if the next governor can turn the windfall into real improvements. Some worry that without clear priorities, the funds could be spent on short-term fixes rather than long-term stability.
Adeleke’s infrastructure projects have faced criticism over quality and delays. His administration insists the work meets engineering standards, but opponents argue some roads and bridges were rushed to meet campaign deadlines. Voters must decide whether to reward visible progress or demand deeper reforms.
Oyebamiji’s focus on private investment comes with risks. Osun’s business environment has long struggled with bureaucracy, and even with higher federal funding, attracting capital may require broader changes. Salaam’s electricity promise, while bold, depends on overcoming regulatory and logistical hurdles.
The election will determine whether voters favor the stability of public-sector jobs and infrastructure or the potential of private-sector growth. Since the state still relies heavily on federal transfers, the next governor’s ability to manage these competing priorities will shape Osun’s future.
Nigeria’s economic challenges have led states like Osun to seek ways to rival similar economies through strategic investments.