Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has urged Gboyega Oyetola, the designated Minister of Transportation, to prioritize the establishment of rail transportation within the state and its integration into the national rail network.

In a congratulatory statement issued by Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson for the Governor, in Osogbo on Thursday, Governor Adeleke emphasized the importance of cooperation between the state and the Minister's office to foster development within the region.

"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Oyetola and his family on this significant national responsibility. Just as I have consistently extended a hand of friendship to him, I reaffirm that commitment as we work together for the betterment of our people and our state.

"Beyond our unwavering support during the ministerial screening process, I continue to extend our support through prayers for a successful tenure. I call for a collaborative partnership between the state and the Federal Government to drive development.

"I am also instructing the Commissioner for Transport to formulate a plan for the restoration of the railway track from the Ibadan end to the Osun border with Kwara state. Our intention is to ensure the track is in optimal condition given its inclusion in the concurrent legislative list.

"We are devising a strategy for a railway link to the national track line in the near future. This may involve a short railway line originating from Ijeshaland to connect with the national line.

Additionally, we plan to establish rail lines from each of the two senatorial districts, facilitating agricultural transportation and connecting to our upcoming cargo airport.

"My team is also exploring the concept of a circular metro railway encircling Osun state. This endeavor will be driven by the private sector, with the ultimate aim of transforming Osun into a highly interconnected economic hub.

"I extend an invitation to the incoming Transportation Minister to become part of this ambitious vision, particularly given the railway's alignment with his portfolio. Osun is fully prepared for a collaborative partnership."