Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has transformed the life of a local puff-puff seller in Osogbo by appointing her as a chef at the Government House after buying her entire stock and gifting her N50,000 in cash.
The heartwarming gesture, which has since gone viral on social media, occurred during the Governor’s recent travels within the state. According to a video circulating online, Adeleke’s convoy stopped near a busy market, where he spotted the vendor selling the popular snack.
In the video, the visibly surprised hawker approached the Governor’s vehicle as Adeleke engaged her in a brief conversation. After asking how much her goods were worth, he astonished onlookers by handing her N50,000 and buying everything she had for sale.
The Governor went a step further by offering the puff-puff seller a job as a Government House chef, a move that has generated widespread reactions online. Supporters have praised Adeleke’s act as an example of compassion and his administration’s focus on uplifting small businesses and empowering ordinary citizens amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.
However, critics argue that while the gesture is commendable, it remains symbolic rather than addressing deeper systemic issues affecting struggling traders and low-income earners across the state.
Governor Adeleke has yet to issue an official statement, but the viral moment has continued to spark conversations about leadership, economic empowerment, and social responsibility in Osun State.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
