- Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola (left), presenting the revalidated certificate for the Ondo Deep Sea Port to the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in Abuja
By Anthony Nwachukwu
The federal government has formally presented the revalidated certificate for the Ondo Deep Seaport to the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, marking a major milestone in the state’s industrial and maritime aspirations.
Presenting the certificate in Abuja, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, said the revalidation was a federal government strategic intervention to unlock the state’s vast maritime and blue economy potential, according to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola.
The minister noted that the deep sea port would serve as a catalyst for trade, industrialisation and regional economic integration, as it aligns squarely with government’s agenda to diversify the economy through maritime infrastructure, logistics and coastal development.
According to Oyetola, “the Ondo Deep Seaport 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.”
He added that the port’s location along the Atlantic corridor would significantly boost non-oil exports, enhance ease of doing business and attract foreign direct investment into the South-West and the country at large.
The minister further explained that “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.”
Receiving the certificate, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, describing the moment as the culmination of years of painstaking effort. He recalled that the license had suffered setbacks due to a naming error in the initial business case, which required the preparation of a fresh and comprehensive submission.
However, “this revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State,” he stated. “It validates our vision for industrial growth, job creation and sustainable development anchored on our long coastline and maritime assets.”
He further explained that his administration was prioritising such supporting infrastructure as dual access roads to industrial zones and modernisation projects, alongside preparations for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to cater for the expected influx of workers and investors, among others.
The governor reiterated that the port and associated projects would have statewide impact, driving inclusive development across all local government areas.
