By Nosa Ekhator
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, announced on Friday that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the revalidation of the state’s deep‑sea port licence, describing the move as a pivotal step toward industrialisation and investment in Ondo.
Speaking at the final expanded quarterly meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders for 2025 at the International Culture and Event Centre, “The Dome,” in Akure, the governor explained that the licence, originally secured during his tenure as deputy governor, was delayed because of a naming error in the business case.
“There was an error in the name of the potential investor. It created setbacks because the licence was not in the name of Deep Sea Port Limited. We had to start new processes and prepare a brand‑new full business case,” he said.
The port will be situated in Erona, Ilaje Local Government Area, which boasts the state’s longest coastline and serves as a gateway to global trade. Governor Aiyedatiwa outlined that the surrounding corridor will host chemical plants producing fertilisers, the Sunshine Petroleum Zone, and a modular refinery with a 500,000‑barrel capacity, all at various stages of planning and development.
“A lot is happening. The MOU has been signed, land allocated and preliminary work done. Construction on the modular refinery has already begun,” he added, underscoring the state’s readiness for large‑scale investments.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that infrastructure development is central to his administration’s strategy. Roads leading to industrial zones are being dualised, and modernisation projects are ongoing. Preparations for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to accommodate an anticipated population increase are also underway.
On social achievements, the governor noted that 412 primary‑health‑care centres have been completed or are nearing completion, ambulances have been provided to all local governments, and doctors’ welfare has been prioritised.
“Security remains a key focus, with 512 personnel deployed across the state, supported by command and control centres. Traditional rulers have been prioritised with enhanced salaries and mobility to strengthen grassroots oversight,” he said.
Urging APC members to put aside personal ambitions, Aiyedatiwa recalled his own primary campaign:
“Even if your aspirant does not secure a ticket, it should not divide the party. Eight of 15 aspirants supported me immediately, and the others eventually joined. That is the way it should be.”
He also called for unity ahead of the 2027 presidential election, linking state progress to national reforms. Improved fiscal policies, he said, have enabled Ondo to invest in infrastructure, security and industrial projects while reducing debt.
“We have started with infrastructure and security to attract investors. Once the port, refinery and petrochemical plants are operational, we can access further funding to support mega‑projects,” he explained.
The governor announced that February 2026 will mark the first anniversary of the elected administration and will feature an investment summit to showcase industrial opportunities to global investors. He affirmed that development will be inclusive, with all 18 local government areas benefiting from the projects.
Southwest APC Vice‑Chairman, Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, praised the governor’s humility and inclusive leadership, urging lawmakers to fully participate in party activities. He highlighted the expansion of representation from 10 to 60 delegates per local government, welcoming stakeholders from all 18 LGAs.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Tunji Abayomi lauded the administration’s achievements, noting the quarterly Stakeholders’ Meetings and the establishment of the Governorship Advisory Council. He also praised last week’s inaugural dialogue between state party executives and the government as unprecedented.
Chief Jamiu Ekungba commended the administration and urged stakeholders to speak positively of the governor’s work, while Dr. S.B. Akerele highlighted the governor’s strategic and fiscally prudent approach, urging better communication of projects to strengthen governance and citizen confidence.
Also present were Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji (represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu); Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative and Party Affairs, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; and other party chieftains from across the 18 local government areas.
#SPARKNEWSNAIJA(SNN). +2348024189597(WhatsApp/Calls)+2348180442222(WhatsApp Only) email.- sparknewsnaija@gmail.com
Comments
Post a Comment