Governor Ademola Adeleke assumed office on November 27, 2022, with a promise to develop sports and upgrade the Osogbo Sports Stadium to international standards within his first 100 days in office. This commitment was made on January 16, 2023, during the 3rd edition of the Late Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup at the Osun State Stadium. However, by the time his administration celebrated its 100 days on March 7, 2023, this promise remained unfulfilled.
Recently, on a political radio program, “Agbami Oselu,” broadcast on Fresh FM Osogbo on July 7, 2024, the Osun State Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed that the current administration of the PDP and Governor Adeleke is prioritizing road and bridge construction, while youth ,children’s and other critical activities are not a focus. This is evident in the 2024 approved budget, which reveals a glaring neglect of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The budget analysis shows alarming figures:
– Sports and Special Needs:
– Budget Allocation: ₦2,071,592,550
– Quarterly Pro-ration: ₦517,898,137.50
– Q1 2024 Spending: ₦246,389,310.08
– Q1 2024 vs Q1 Pro-ration:47.57%
– Q1 2024 vs 2024 Budget: 11.89%
– Youth Affairs:
– Budget Allocation: ₦4,300,965,430
– Quarterly Pro-ration: ₦1,075,241,357
– Q1 2024 Spending: ₦12,175,139.85
– Q1 2024 vs Q1 Pro-ration: 1.13%
– Q1 2024 vs 2024 Budget:0.28%
These figures indicate insufficient support for the youth and sports sectors in the state. The significant gap between planned expenditure and actual spending suggests a lack of commitment to these areas.
The lack of budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Youth and Sports is a clear indicator of the administration’s failure to prioritize the needs and development of young people in Osun State. The youth must take action. Engage with local representatives to demand better funding and support for youth and sports programs. Collaborate with non-governmental organizations and private sector entities to seek alternative support and funding. Explore innovative and entrepreneurial solutions to create opportunities within the sports and youth sectors, independent of government support. Additionally, actively monitor and hold the government accountable for budget allocations and expenditures to ensure transparency and appropriate use of funds.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration has clearly failed to deliver on its promises to the youth and sports sectors. The current budget allocation reflects neglect, undermining the potential growth and development of young people in Osun State. It is time for the youth to rise, advocate for their rights, and demand the support they deserve for a brighter future.