A delegation of from mainland China and Hong Kong has praised the scale and pace of infrastructural development across Osun State, saying the ongoing transformation is positioning the state as an emerging hub for industrialisation, economic expansion and shared prosperity.
The 22-member delegation, drawn from sectors including water and food processing, mining, electric vehicles and agro-equipment, delivered their assessment during a dinner hosted by the Osun State Government at the Government House on Tuesday evening.
The event was attended by Governor Ademola Adeleke, his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, and other dignitaries.
Speaking on behalf of the investors, the team leader and Managing Director of Yuanfar International, Ms Nancy Chi said infrastructure development remains the foundation of economic growth, noting that Osun’s ongoing road construction and urban renewal efforts mirror the strategy that drove China’s own economic rise.
She said Chinese investors had traditionally focused on Abuja, Lagos and Ogun as preferred destinations but noted a clear shift in interest towards Osun State due to the visible transformation under the current administration.
“Previously, Osun hardly featured in investment conversations among our people. Today, that narrative is changing because of the governor’s commitment to development. We toured several towns and cities and witnessed extensive construction projects.
“Osun is peaceful, culturally rich and blessed with beautiful landscapes, all of which make it attractive to investors,” Ms Chi said.
She added that the delegation comprises investors interested in food processing, water packaging and treatment, mining, electric vehicles and agricultural machinery, expressing satisfaction with the support received from the state government, particularly around plans for the Osun Free Trade Zone.
Ms Chi further disclosed that Hong Kong’s investment agency plans to formally invite Governor Adeleke for an official visit, while a separate investment delegation is expected to visit Osun State in 2026 to deepen engagement.
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Oba Haastrup, flanked by his wife, Olori Vicky Ayodele Haastrup, and prominent businessman and Ajiroba of Ijeshaland, Alhaji Lateef Bakare, described the Adeleke family as visionary leaders with a strong belief in economic development as the backbone of good governance.
The monarch, who recalled his tenure as Deputy Governor of Osun State, said the investors were already considering the establishment of industrial plants in Ilesa and other parts of the state, stressing that the interest shown was practical and business-focused.
He disclosed plans by the investors to develop a China Town, a computer village and solar-powered tricycle manufacturing plants, with strong interest in the Osun State Free Trade Zone. He commended the governor for creating a conducive environment for business growth.
Adeleke thanked the investors for their confidence in his administration and reiterated his government’s commitment to reversing years of infrastructural neglect.
He said Osun’s infrastructure deficit, inherited at over 80 per cent, has been reduced to about 40 per cent within three years through aggressive investment in roads and public facilities.
The governor highlighted reforms aimed at attracting investors, including reducing the processing time for Certificates of Occupancy to 45 days, harmonising tax collection to eliminate multiple taxation and reviving the previously abandoned Osun Free Trade Zone.
Governor Adeleke also announced that the University of Ilesa has secured accreditation to offer Chinese language studies, describing it as part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties with Asia.
“Osun is open for business. We are serious about attracting global investors, and we invite you to take advantage of the opportunities available in our state,” the governor said.
The dinner was attended by members of the Osun State Executive Council and several traditional rulers from across Ijeshaland.
Sahel Standard
