The Federal Government has approved the Ondo Deep Sea Port for commencement of operations, evidenced by the formal presentation of its revalidated operating certificate to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, marking a significant step towards unlocking the state's maritime and industrial potential. This was revealed in a statement released on Monday by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Advisor to the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
He pointed out that the governor received the revalidated certificate from the minister, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, at his Abuja office on Thursday. He described the action as a calculated effort to activate Ondo State's blue economy resources and establish the port as a catalyst for national development.
According to Oyetola, the deep sea port would stimulate trade, industrialization, and regional economic integration and is in line with the Federal Government's plan to diversify the economy through maritime infrastructure, logistics, and coastal development.
“The Ondo Deep Sea Port is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that will strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, reduce pressure on existing ports, and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing, and job creation,” the minister said.
He said that the port's location along the Atlantic route will increase non-oil exports, make conducting business easier, and draw foreign direct investment to the Southwest and the economy as a whole.
“The revalidated licence provides certainty to investors and sends a strong signal that Nigeria is ready for serious maritime investments. With the supporting infrastructure planned around the port, Ondo State is positioning itself as a major player in the blue economy,” Minister Oyetola said.
After accepting the certificate, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, calling it the result of the state's years of consistent work. He noted that a naming issue in the first business case caused problems for the first licence, which was acquired during his time as deputy governor. As a result, a new and thorough proposal was required.
“This revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State. It validates our vision for industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable development anchored on our long coastline and maritime assets,” the governor said.
In order to accommodate the expected influx of workers and investors, Aiyedatiwa said his administration was already giving priority to supporting infrastructure, such as modernization projects and the dualization of access roads to industrial zones, as well as preparations for residential, educational, and hospitality facilities. He continued by saying that the deep sea port and related projects would have an effect on the entire state, promoting inclusive growth in every local government region.
