Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has revealed that his administration has embarked on a significant reform of the Amotekun Corps, aiming to enhance the security network in the state.

These changes, he explained, will make Amotekun a stronger link between local communities and federal security agencies.

The governor highlighted this during a meeting with a delegation from the Ife Development Board at the Government House in Osogbo.

Adeleke noted that the reformed Amotekun Corps would collaborate closely with local vigilante groups and forest hunters to tackle security challenges in both urban and rural areas.

This partnership is expected to improve security across Osun State and create a more coordinated approach between community-based efforts and formal security structures.

He stressed the importance of making Amotekun a bridge between grassroots communities and the national security apparatus, ensuring that local knowledge and resources are effectively utilized to combat crime and protect the people.

During the meeting, the governor also expressed his concerns about the current state of infrastructure in the historic city of Ile-Ife, which he believes does not reflect its importance.

He revealed that plans are in place to modernize the city, starting with major upgrades to the Lagere flyover and the dualization of the road leading to the Ooni of Ife’s palace.

These projects, according to Adeleke, are necessary not just for the convenience of residents but also to enhance the city’s image as a cultural and historical hub.

“Ile-Ife has too much cultural significance to remain underdeveloped,” Adeleke said, emphasizing that the city’s global importance, especially in hosting international visitors, demands a higher level of development.

He explained that the modernization of Ile-Ife is not just about improving infrastructure but also about positioning the city as a major tourism and religious destination.

The governor, who was accompanied by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, further reiterated Ile-Ife’s pivotal role as the cultural and spiritual heart of the Yoruba people worldwide.

The city’s rich heritage draws visitors from across Africa, as well as North and South America, further underlining its global relevance.

Adeleke expressed his gratitude to the Ooni of Ife and other local leaders for their support of ongoing development efforts in the city.

He specifically mentioned the critical role the Lagere flyover will play in the city’s economy.

Serving as a key junction connecting Osun West, Ilesa, and Ondo through Garage Olode, the flyover is expected to ease traffic and boost commercial activity in the region.

The governor also touched on plans for boosting the state’s agricultural sector.

He announced that the government, with support from the African Development Bank (AFDB), would soon launch an agricultural processing zone in Ile-Ife.

This initiative aims to improve food processing capabilities in the region, create jobs, and enhance the state’s agricultural output.

According to Adeleke, agriculture remains a vital part of the state’s economy, and the new processing zone is expected to significantly contribute to the state’s growth.

Earlier in the meeting, Gbenga Adefaye, the president of the Ife Development Board, praised Adeleke’s administration for its commitment to improving the state, particularly in Ile-Ife. He acknowledged the strides made in road expansion, security enhancement, and agricultural development, while also outlining additional areas that require government attention.

Adeleke’s plans for Osun State, particularly Ile-Ife, reflect his administration’s broader goal of improving infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities for the people. By focusing on modernization and collaboration with local communities, the governor aims to ensure that both urban centres and rural areas benefit from these reforms. With projects like the Lagere flyover and the introduction of the agricultural processing zone, his vision for the state’s development is steadily taking shape.