Aiyedatiwa Says Ondo Deep Seaport on Course as Project Licence Revalidated
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said the proposed deep seaport in Ilaje Local Government Area will be completed before the expiration of his administration.
The governor disclosed that the project, initially approved under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has recently received licence revalidation from the Federal Government, clearing the way for execution.
He described the seaport as a transformative venture capable of reshaping the state’s economic landscape.
Aiyedatiwa spoke on Thursday while briefing journalists on activities marking Ondo State’s 50th anniversary.
He assured that all necessary approvals were already in place and that construction of the port remains a top priority of his government.
According to the governor, Ondo’s coastline, inland waterways and natural resources provide a strategic advantage similar to that of Lagos State, noting that the seaport would open doors for industrial growth, boost agricultural value chains, encourage bitumen exploration and increase commercial activity across the state.
He expressed optimism that the project would generate employment opportunities, stimulate infrastructure development, expand the hospitality sector and attract population inflow, thereby laying a strong foundation for sustainable prosperity.
Speaking on the golden jubilee celebration, Aiyedatiwa described the anniversary as more than a ceremonial event, saying it offers an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey, assess present realities and chart a strategic course for the future.
He added that 50 years provided sufficient time to evaluate the vision behind Ondo State’s creation and the efforts of successive administrations in pursuing that vision.
The governor paid tribute to the state’s first civilian governor, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, whom he praised for exemplary leadership and integrity that set enduring standards for governance in the state.
He also acknowledged the roles played by notable elders and nationalists, including the late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, Pa Reuben Fasoranti and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, describing their contributions as deeply rooted in the state’s political heritage.
Aiyedatiwa further recognised past military and civilian administrators for their collective contributions to Ondo’s institutional growth, mentioning former governors including Chief Bamidele Olumilua, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Dr Olusegun Agagu, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and his immediate predecessor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
Ondo State was created on February 3, 1976, by the military government of Major General Murtala Muhammed.
