Developing Osun Local Content Value Chain for Shared Prosperity

Protocols: Honored Guests, Distinguished Stakeholders, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is both a privilege to stand before you today as we gather with a shared vision—to create a future where Osun’s abundant resources serve as the foundation of our prosperity. I thank God for this opportunity and express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for his commitment to transforming Osun’s economy from one reliant on civil service to one built on industry, entrepreneurship, and innovation. My first encounter with Governor Adeleke of not judging a book by its cover on the …..

As date, we have not yet started building the Tech City of our dreams that would generate 100,000 direct and indirect jobs. What we are building now should generate about 10,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2026, when we should have had 70% occupancy. We thank Mr. Bankole Omisore, Mr. Fritz Mobolaji Olaoye, and Hon George Ibitayo Alabi, Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, who made the current pure real estate play possible. However, I thank the Commissioner of Commerce, Rev Bunmi Jenyo, who has taken it up to make the project of building a work-live-play, cradle-to-gravel tech city reality.

We look forward to using TechCity as a means of creating some local content value chain for our shared prosperity.

Today’s theme, “Developing Osun Local Content Value Chain for Shared Prosperity,” calls us to reimagine the future of Osun State. It is a call to take pride in what we have, to believe in our people, and to invest in our resources. The journey to shared prosperity begins here, with each of us playing a part in transforming our rich heritage into tangible economic progress.

Osun State’s Competitive Advantages

Osun is blessed with an enviable position. Centrally located in the South-West, we are a hub connecting various markets and facilitating trade across regions. We have fertile land, mineral deposits, cultural assets, and a vibrant workforce. This mix of advantages gives us a unique position to drive an economy that thrives on local content. We have 18 tertiary institutions!

Our agricultural resources—from cocoa to cassava, rice, tomatoes, and plantains—are more than just crops. They are the ingredients for building an economy of locally processed goods. Imagine a future where Osun’s maize and soya beans are transformed into cereals, our cocoa into premium chocolate, our cassava into industrial starch, and our tomatoes into high-quality paste. Picture our tourist centers bustling with visitors. My people, this is not just talk—these are real possibilities if we align our actions with this vision.

A Necessary Shift in Mindset

To realize these possibilities, we must shift our mindset from dependency to self-reliance. Too often, we look outside for solutions when, in fact, the answers lie within our land, our people, and our heritage. We have the skills, materials, and expertise needed to build a resilient economy, one that uplifts our communities and creates lasting value.

This shift means investing in our local industries, supporting our entrepreneurs, and embracing the idea that Osun’s growth should be driven by Osun’s own. By turning our raw materials into finished products and empowering local businesses, we not only create jobs but also enhance our economic independence. It is this independence that will lead to a more stable and prosperous society for all.

Major shift of mindset must come from all of us especially Government officials

Embracing Mass Mobilization

Part of this necessary shift in mindset involves a mass mobilization campaign to engage our citizens in a unified vision of discipline, productivity, and patriotism. If we are truly committed to building a prosperous Osun, we need the entire populace to rise to the challenge. This isn’t just about policy—it’s about sparking a movement that transforms attitudes and habits. The Governor and Government must go into a campaign mode like MAMSER (mass mobilization for reliance, social justice and economic recovery) of Prof Jerry Gana

We have seen the power of such initiatives before. In 1983, the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) was launched across Nigeria to promote order, responsibility, and national pride. Through simple practices like punctuality, cleanliness, and respect for others, WAI changed public behavior significantly, creating a stronger sense of civic duty. This campaign showed us the power of collective action in fostering a culture of discipline and respect.

In Lagos, the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) initiative in 2003 took on critical issues like environmental sanitation and street trading. Through public education and enforcement, KAI helped make Lagos a cleaner, more organized place. We, too, need a movement in Osun that instills civic pride, responsibility, and a shared commitment to our state’s progress.

Here’s how we can achieve this:

  • Promote Civic Education: Educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities, emphasizing each person’s role in Osun’s development.
  • Encourage Community Involvement: Foster a culture where people actively engage in local projects, from clean-ups to supporting local businesses.
  • Instill State Pride: By celebrating Osun’s achievements, we strengthen our identity and unity, motivating people to support our shared goals. In the HazanaCity, we are building two unique facilities that can help achieve this: A Digital Museum that would showcase the history and culture of Osun State detailing the lives and times of our heroes, their achievements and challenges. And State Cemetary where our Heroes and top government functionaries can be buried and honored.

Through this mass mobilization, we can cultivate a disciplined, productive, and patriotic citizenry. Together, we lay the foundation for a resilient, prosperous, and proud Osun State.

Addressing the Education Emergency in Osun

Before we can fully unlock Osun’s potential, we must confront a pressing issue that underlies every other achievement: the education of our youth. A wise society invests in its children,

knowing they are the leaders, workers, and citizens of tomorrow. But right now, many of Osun’s young people lack access to the quality education and training they need to succeed. This isn’t just a challenge; it’s a crisis. The WAEC results are a disaster in of an unimaginable proportion. We must declare an “education emergency” in Osun to ensure every young person receives a solid foundation. Some here may remember our efforts with VolunterCorps where we turned around the situation for two academic years. Still doable!

Education—both academic and practical—must become non-negotiable. We need policies that make primary and secondary education compulsory for every child, along with measures to eliminate street trading and hawking that keep children out of school. No child in Osun should be on the street when they should be in a classroom, learning skills for their future.

Beyond secondary school, education must open diverse pathways. Not every student will pursue a university degree, but everyone should be able to build a valuable skill. Those passionate about artisanship, craftsmanship, or technical skills should have access to structured training programs. This way, we’re not just educating a generation—we’re preparing a skilled, versatile workforce ready to contribute to Osun’s growth.

Ladies and gentlemen, without educated and skilled citizens, any talk of economic transformation will remain just that—talk. To achieve lasting prosperity, we must start with our people. Let us make a collective commitment to invest in the education of Osun’s youth, laying a foundation for a future where they are empowered to lead, innovate, and drive our economy forward.

Permit me to throw a challenge here: We have two State Universities UniOsun and University of Ilesa. Can we create a Think Tank out of these two institutions to not only come up with solutions to this issue but also implement their solutions? The platform of VolunteerCorps we used 2017 and 2018 to ameliorate the issue can be discussed with the Think Tank as basis of their work. A I ki ni ooko ni le ka fi owo ko mi. Our Governor, ladies and gentlemen, Omo ti a o ko lo ma gbe ile ti a ko ta.! Kindly

Emphasis on two Initiatives for Local Growth within our area of expertise:

  1. SmartCities: Let us discuss reasons why.
  2. HazanaCity. Ah, this one is big! It’s the first polycentric smart city in Nigeria, a $1.2 billion investment. With its “work, live, and play” environment, HazanaCity will create 100,000 jobs and transform the lives of 250,000 people. It’s like living inside the future—but it’s happening here, in Osun. Tell me, how many states have this kind of vision? If you ask me, HazanaCity alone could make our people say, “Ehen, Osun don move o!” (Osun has truly advanced). We hope working with the Commerce Ministry of Rev Jenyo, we can achieve the full scale of the TechCity we envisage.
  3. Agropolis: An agropolis is a modern, sustainable development concept that integrates agriculture into urban and peri-urban areas. The goal is to address food security, reduce the environmental and social impact of traditional farming, and foster a healthier, self-sufficient community. Can we learn from Gov Saraki’s experiment in Kwara, drastically improve on it, and start implementing at scale with the Israelis, Malaysians, etc

The Role of Government in Driving Local Content

The government’s role is to create policies, provide incentives, build infrastructure, and streamline regulations so businesses have no excuse not to thrive. To avoid doubt, the government has no business in business. A significant underutilized power the Government has is GOODWILL as different from patronage. Imagine a delegation of the state government led by the governor to Nestle, Guinness, Olam etc. What would they not get? Some other major roles that we need the government to play

  1. Identification, Marketing, and promotions of Osun businesses and business people
  2. Invitations and partnerships with large corporations and manufacturers are needed to come into the state on favorable terms. And
  3. Local and foreign road shows and exhibitions with Osun based or owned businesses

Actionable Steps for Building Osun’s Local Content Value Chain

This brings me to what we can do. We can talk all day, but as they say, “Action speaks louder than words.” This is the time for local entrepreneurs to look at the resources around you. How can you turn cassava into starch, plantain into chips, or cocoa into chocolate? Don’t wait for someone from Lagos or Abuja to tell you—it’s all here.

Investors, Osun has fertile land, hard-working people, and the drive to succeed. There are many opportunities; all we need are those willing to invest in our future. And to everyone in our communities, let’s support our local businesses and celebrate Osun-made products. When you see someone doing something great, support them—don’t just say, “Ah, Osun no dey carry last,” be the reason Osun comes first! Let’s not be like the person given a whole yam and still asking for pounded yam.

A Call to Action: Transforming Osun for Shared Prosperity

Ladies and gentlemen, we’re all part of this movement. Developing Osun’s local content value chain isn’t just a policy—it’s a call to each of us to contribute to Osun’s greatness. It’s about building a future where our children can say, “I am proud to be from Osun.”

This state has what it takes to lead in Nigeria, but it will take each of us playing our part. We need leaders who prioritize local industries, businesses that source locally, and a community that supports homegrown products. Together, we can leave a legacy of prosperity and pride that generations will thank us for.

Conclusion

In closing, let’s remember that Osun’s future is in our hands. In other words, we have the resources to succeed, but we must also put in the work.

Let us move forward, committed to developing Osun’s local content value chain for a future filled with pride, prosperity, and promise. Naani naani naani, Oun tani lan naani.

Thank you, and God bless Osun State!

Demola Aladekomo November 19, 2024

SmartCity Hosts High-Profile Stakeholders Engagement at HazanaCity, Abeere, Osogbo

In a bold move to reaffirm its commitment to sustainable urban development, SmartCity PLC, the visionary developers behind the iconic HazanaCity, recently convened an exclusive stakeholders’ engagement at the HazanaCity site in Abeere, Osogbo. The highly anticipated event brought together an impressive gathering of key partners, early subscribers, and thought leaders in the real estate and technology space, all eager to shape the future of Osun State’s first polycentric smart city.

The engagement, held against the backdrop of renewed momentum for the HazanaCity project, was marked by an inspiring address from the Executive Chairman of SmartCity PLC. Addressing an attentive audience, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to subscribers and partners for their unrelenting support, especially during the project’s challenging phase. He candidly acknowledged the regulatory and developmental hurdles faced but reassured stakeholders that SmartCity is now back stronger, poised to deliver on its promise.

We are back—bigger, bolder, and better. Our vision is to create more than just a real estate development. HazanaCity will be a futuristic, tech-enabled environment where people can seamlessly work, live, and play. It’s not just about properties; it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem that drives economic growth and smart urban living,” stated the Chairman with unmistakable enthusiasm.

The energy in the room was electric as subscribers shared their excitement about the project’s progress. One subscriber, radiating pride, remarked: “Being part of HazanaCity is more than an investment—it’s a legacy. The opportunity to interact with the Executive Chairman reaffirmed my confidence in this visionary project. With property prices soaring in this corridor, I encourage other investors to seize this incredible opportunity while they can.”

The feedback from partners was equally encouraging. They emphasized their shared commitment to seeing HazanaCity reach its full potential. “This project is not just about real estate; it’s a catalyst for innovation and growth in Nigeria’s evolving tech-driven economy. We are proud to be partners in such a transformative venture,” said a leading project partner, garnering applause from the room.

HazanaCity is not your typical real estate development. Situated in the heart of Abeere, Osogbo, it’s a carefully planned community blending sustainable urban design with cutting-edge technology. With a focus on smart infrastructure, renewable energy solutions, and tech-driven innovations, HazanaCity promises to be a beacon of modern living in Osun State and beyond. The development is a crucial part of Osun State’s broader ambitions to drive investment and economic growth, aligning with initiatives like the Osun State Investment Summit and the state’s focus on building a tech-driven economy.

For those seeking prime investment opportunities, HazanaCity presents an unbeatable proposition. High-net-worth individuals, real estate investors, and tech enthusiasts are invited to be part of this next-generation community. With property prices on a steady upward trend, the time to invest is now.

HazanaCity is designed for pioneers—visionaries who see beyond the now and are ready to embrace a future where innovation, technology, and sustainability intersect. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of Nigeria’s premier smart estate development. Whether you’re looking to invest, partner, or simply be part of something bigger, HazanaCity is the place to be.

HazanaCity: Nigeria’s Transformative Urban Future & First Polycentric Smart City Presented at The Osun Investment Summit

The recently concluded Osun State Investment Summit set the stage for a groundbreaking announcement, as Sir Demola Aladekomo, Executive Chairman of SmartCity PLC, unveiled HazanaCity—Nigeria’s first polycentric smart city. Addressing an audience of government functionaries, real estate investors, technology enthusiasts, and key stakeholders, Sir Aladekomo highlighted the transformative impact that HazanaCity will have on urban living, economic growth, and technological innovation in Nigeria.

HazanaCity is not just another real estate development; it is a $1.2 billion integrated urban ecosystem designed to reshape the future of living in Nigeria. Strategically located at the ONT (Oranmiyan New Town) Development Scheme, Osogbo, along the Gbongan-Ibadan Expressway, and with an extension in Ibadan beside Kola Daisi University and FHA Estate, HazanaCity promises to impact over 250,000 residents and create 100,000 direct and indirect jobs.

HazanaCity embodies a forward-thinking, sustainable, and innovative approach to urban living. With tech hubs, solar farms, data centers, and modern residential zones, the city will be a seamless blend of work, live, and play. Imagine a city where green energy powers cutting-edge technology and entrepreneurship thrives in a community designed to foster innovation and a high quality of life.

Sir Aladekomo underscored the importance of sustainability, stating: “HazanaCity represents the future of urban living—where technology, sustainability, and community intersect. We are not just building infrastructure; we are creating a transformative environment for businesses, residents, and innovators to thrive.

The summit was graced by dignitaries including the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, ably represented, the Deputy Governor of Osun State who represented the Executive Governor of the State, HE Senator Adeleke, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and other government officials as well as private companies executives. The initiative was highly commended, emphasizing its alignment with the government’s vision of fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving sustainable development in Osun State and across the country.

Sir Aladekomo called on visionary investors, real estate developers, and technology pioneers to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partner with SmartCity PLC in bringing HazanaCity to life. He emphasized the need for public-private collaboration, including additional land allocation, tax incentives, and infrastructure support, to fully realize the project’s potential.

The collaboration between SmartCity PLC and the Osun State Government positions Osogbo as a new tech-driven hub, providing unparalleled opportunities for investors and partners looking to shape the future of Nigeria’s urban landscape.

HazanaCity is set to turn Osogbo and Ibadan into tech innovation hubs, marking the beginning of a new era of urban living in Nigeria. With tech hubs, innovation parks, and renewable energy solutions, the city will not only attract local and international businesses but also provide a sustainable and forward-looking community for residents.

This is more than an investment in real estate—it is an investment in Nigeria’s future. HazanaCity will leave a lasting legacy of innovation, sustainability, and job creation, making it the perfect destination for high-net-worth individuals, real estate investors, technology entrepreneurs, and strategic partners.

SmartCity PLC invites investors, entrepreneurs, and strategic partners to explore the immense possibilities HazanaCity offers. Whether you are looking to invest in the next generation of smart cities or contribute to a project that will reshape the urban landscape of Nigeria, HazanaCity is the place to be.

About SmartCity PLC

SmartCity is an investment, technology, and infrastructure development company dedicated to creating modern real estate and infrastructural projects that enable people to live, work, and relax in a technologically enabled environment, fostering pleasant and productive living.

SmartCity, ChamsHoldco Synergizes with ICAN to Revolutionize Accounting Through Technology

Lagos, Nigeria – In a significant step towards advancing the accounting profession in Nigeria, SmartCity PLC, in collaboration with ChamsHoldco, recently hosted Chief Davidson Chizuoke Alaribe, FCA, the 60th President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), along with his leadership team, at their Ikoyi, Lagos office. This visit, characterized by insightful discussions and a shared vision, marked a pivotal moment for the organizations, underscoring the power of collaboration in driving industry-wide transformation.

Chief Alaribe, a distinguished leader in the accounting profession, was warmly welcomed by SmartCity’s Executive Chairman, Demola Aladekomo, alongside Mrs. Mayowa Olaniyan, Group Managing Director of ChamsHoldCo, and Mr. Gabriel Ukachukwu, Group Chief Financial Officer of SmartCity PLC. The meeting was centred around a critical objective: harnessing the potential of digital innovation to elevate the accounting profession in Nigeria.

The discussion focused on how technology can be leveraged to streamline accounting processes, enhance transparency, and equip professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy. All parties expressed a strong commitment to this mission, recognizing that the future of accounting lies in embracing cutting-edge solutions that empower accountants to perform their roles with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

“At SmartCity, we believe that technology is the cornerstone of modern business,” said Demola Aladekomo, Executive Chairman of SmartCity PLC. “This partnership with ICAN is a testament to our commitment to leading the charge in digital transformation. By collaborating with ICAN, we aim to support the professional development of accountants in Nigeria, providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

This strategic alliance marks the beginning of an exciting journey for SmartCity, ChamsHoldco, and ICAN. As we look to the future, we are proud to partner with ICAN in this endeavour and anticipate the positive changes this collaboration will bring to the accounting profession and beyond, ensuring that Nigerian accountants are not just keeping pace with global trends but are also at the forefront of innovation.

About SmartCity PLC

SmartCity is an investment, technology, and infrastructure development company dedicated to creating modern real estate and infrastructural projects that enable people to live, work, and relax in a technologically enabled environment, fostering pleasant and productive living.

Positioning for Opportunities in the Digital Economy

A summary of the speech delivered at the recently held Inaugural Graduation Ceremony of Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub

Sir Demola Aladekomo, Executive Chairman of SmartCity PLC, delivered an inspiring keynote address at the Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub’s inaugural graduation ceremony. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the graduating class and their potential to thrive in the digital economy.

Aladekomo emphasized the transformative power of the digital economy, stating, “The digital economy is not just a buzzword but a transformative force reshaping industries, societies, and the fabric of our daily lives.” He highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a digital leader, citing its youthful population and increasing internet penetration.

The speech commended the graduates’ expertise in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and UI/UX Design, stressing their crucial role in fueling the digital revolution. Aladekomo acknowledged the importance of institutions like the Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub, which equip young people with the skills needed to succeed in this new frontier.

From Humble Beginnings to Digital Success

Aladekomo shared his personal journey, inspiring the graduates with his story of starting Chams Plc from the ground up. He emphasized the values of hard work, perseverance, and embracing opportunities within the digital space.

The 3Gs and 3Cs: Values for Success

Aladekomo outlined six key values for success in the digital economy:

  • The 3Gs:
    • Grit: unwavering determination to achieve long-term goals
    • Give: generosity in sharing knowledge, skills, and resources
    • Gratitude: appreciating opportunities and those who support you
  • The 3Cs:
    • Charisma: the ability to inspire and influence others
    • Character: integrity, honesty, and ethical behaviour
    • Competence: a combination of skills, knowledge, and expertise

A Call to Action

Aladekomo concluded by urging the graduates to embrace the digital economy, contribute to societal growth, and become catalysts for positive change. He left them with a message of encouragement, stating, “The future is bright, and the opportunities are limitless.”

This is a powerful message for young Nigerians aspiring to make their mark in the digital world. By following Aladekomo’s advice and harnessing the potential of the digital economy, they can contribute to a brighter future for themselves and their nation.

Read the full speech here

About SmartCity PLC

SmartCity is an investment and infrastructure development company dedicated to creating modern real estate and infrastructural projects that enable people to live, work, and relax in a technologically enabled environment, fostering pleasant and productive living.