Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on the United Kingdom government to prioritize investments in Nigerian subnational entities, identifying Osun as a strategic hub for UK business interests.
Speaking during an investment meeting at the UK House of Commons, the governor said Osun State, which he described as the “heartland of South Western Nigeria,” offers untapped opportunities in mining, agriculture, digital innovation, and the creative economy.
The session, hosted by the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Florence Eshalomi MP, also featured representatives from ESG Management Services UK Ltd and other private sector stakeholders.
“The global economy demands closer ties within the Commonwealth,” Governor Adeleke said. “We believe subnational partnerships will unlock new paths for bilateral growth. Osun State is ready for such partnerships.”
Highlighting his administration’s reforms, Adeleke cited Osun’s streamlined land certification process, unified tax regime, one-stop investment office, and investment protection policies as key indicators of a business-friendly environment.
He revealed that the state had reduced its infrastructure deficit by over 50%, with a goal of surpassing 70% by the end of 2025.
Rt. Hon. Eshalomi lauded Osun’s progress and praised the state’s efforts to create a conducive atmosphere for foreign investment. She pledged to strengthen economic ties between Osun and the UK, especially in areas already positioned for international capital inflow.
The meeting culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Osun State Government and ESG Management Services UK Ltd. The agreement aims to attract UK-based investments into key sectors in Osun, with ESGMS facilitating partnerships and preparing public assets for global investors.
The MoU was signed by Osun’s Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, and Francisco Toju Da-Silva on behalf of ESGMS.
Governor Adeleke was accompanied by senior officials including the Commissioners for Budget, Commerce, and Agriculture, as well as leaders from the state’s chamber of commerce.
