The newly inaugurated projects include a remodelled Faculty of Law annex, a remodelled Faculty of Public Health building, reconstructed internal road networks, new hostel facilities, a female medical hostel, and a Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences building. According to the governor, the projects reflect his administration's commitment to strengthening higher education and improving learning conditions for students and staff.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, Adeleke said the university had witnessed remarkable progress within a short period, noting that his government laid the legal and administrative foundation that transformed the institution from an idea into a fully operational university.
Addressing traditional rulers and members of the Ijesa community, the governor said:
"To our royal fathers and the entire Ijesa sons and daughters, I have fulfilled my pledge to make this University a reality. Your dream, our dream, is a reality that nobody can play politics with."
Reflecting on the university's establishment, Adeleke stated that his administration went beyond earlier declarations by putting the necessary legal framework in place.
"From an audio pronouncement by the previous administration, our government enacted a state law establishing the university, providing a framework for its governance. We secured accreditation for several courses."
He commended the institution's Governing Council, Vice Chancellor and management team for their leadership, describing the university's growth as a source of pride.
"I congratulate the Governing Council, the Vice Chancellor and the management of the university. You have demonstrated your managerial and academic capacities. Our baby is growing to become an adult. I am proud of you all."
The governor highlighted several interventions undertaken by his administration, including improved staff welfare, the appointment of experienced administrators, the successful transition from the former Osun State College of Education to a full-fledged university, and the conversion of temporary and contract workers to permanent and pensionable employment.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Prof. Taiwo Asaolu, said the newly commissioned facilities would significantly improve teaching, research, clinical training and students' welfare.
He praised Adeleke's support for the institution, noting that the university had recorded rapid expansion since its establishment.
"Your Excellency, we are profoundly grateful to your administration. In just 3 years, UNILESA has grown from a vision to a thriving academic community of 12 Faculties, 1 College of Health Sciences, 110 academic programmes and over 15,000 students."
Meanwhile, the governor also presided over the inauguration of several projects at Osun State University (UNIOSUN), including a sports complex, a three-in-one laboratory complex, a 500-capacity lecture theatre and a 750-capacity lecture theatre at the institution's main campus in Osogbo.
As part of the event, Adeleke installed the Chief Executive Officer of Bovas Group, Mrs Victoria Samson, as the third Chancellor of Osun State University, describing her as a worthy successor to the immediate past Chancellor, Apostle Folorunso Alakija.