Osun's Governor Adeleke Calls for Economic Partnership Between Nigeria and Canada

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has appealed to the Canadian High Commission to collaborate with his administration in establishing a new partnership between sub-national governments of Nigeria and Canada.

The Governor made this appeal on Tuesday while receiving a Canadian delegation led by the Deputy High Commissioner.

He emphasized that this initiative is timely in light of the current global economic shifts.

During the meeting, which included Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Secretary to the State Government Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, and the Head of Service, Ayanleye Aina, Adeleke said, "Osun State serves as a model for the deepening of trade and economic ties."

He added, "I acknowledge the robust diplomatic and economic relations between Canada and Nigeria, founded on shared democratic principles and respect for one another."

"I am pleased that we are collaborating to extend the trade agreement between Nigeria and Canada to the states of both countries."

The Governor urged Canada to widen its collaborations to include state governments, where numerous economic and investment opportunities exist.

"We are a stable and economically viable state with vast avenues for Canadian investment. Osun is ready for business and is seeking strategic international partnerships."

Adeleke highlighted significant investment prospects in various sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing, solid minerals and responsible mining, renewable energy, education, technology, and cultural industries.

He pointed out that there has been a commitment to improving the business environment, including enhanced transparency and investor protection. He noted achievements like the digitization of the tax system and the expedited acquisition of business occupancy certificates.

“Our free trade zones are available for investors, and we are making strides in bridging the infrastructure gap in Osun," he stated.

He further mentioned, “Our aspirations for these partnerships extend beyond commerce to encompass knowledge transfer, collaboration among institutions, and capacity development."

“We are hopeful that this visit will strengthen the sub-national cooperation between Osun and Canada, fostering mutual prosperity."

“Collaboration between Osun and Canadian sub-national governments is an initiative we should pursue together. I have just returned from the International Mining Indaba in Cape Town and look forward to a similar conference in Canada later this year.”

Discussing the political climate in Osun, he reassured the Canadian delegation that, “Osun is actively engaged with the national government to address any bilateral issues that may be highlighted in the media.

"Our democracy is a work in progress, and we have faith that continued communication with federal authorities will resolve the crises at the local government level."

He affirmed, “We believe that President Bola Tinubu is committed to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law."

“Osun is peaceful, and governance continues. I prioritize good governance, and the President is also an advocate for effective governance and a people- centric administration."

"We hence align with the Presidency and federal government on this matter."

Earlier, Carlus Rojas Arbulu, head of the Canadian delegation, stated that their visit aims to explore potential economic partnerships between businesses in Osun and those in Canada.

The diplomat remarked that Osun was chosen for this initiative due to its promising potential, confirming Canada’s commitment to facilitate business relationships between their sub-national entities and Nigeria.

The delegation's seven-day visit included diplomats from trade and political departments and was organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on S.D.G and Multilateral Relations, Hon. Bamikole Omishore.