The federal government says it has taken a decisive step to unlock Ondo State’s maritime and industrial potential with the revalidation of the Ondo Deep Sea Port licence, signalling fresh momentum for trade, jobs, and investment in the South-West state.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, formally presented the revalidated certificate to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State at his office in Abuja, describing the move as a major milestone and a strategic federal intervention aimed at harnessing the state’s vast blue economy resources.
Mr Oyetola said the deep sea port would serve as a catalyst for trade expansion, industrialisation and regional economic integration, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader economic diversification agenda.
“The Ondo Deep Sea Port is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that will boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, ease congestion at existing ports and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing and job creation,” he said.
He added that the port’s Atlantic corridor location would strengthen non-oil exports, improve the ease of doing business and attract foreign direct investment to the South-West region and the wider Nigerian economy.
According to the minister, the revalidated licence provides clarity and confidence for investors, reinforcing Nigeria’s readiness to support and sustain large-scale maritime investments.
Receiving the certificate, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approving the revalidation, describing it as the outcome of years of sustained effort by the state.
He explained that the original licence faced delays due to a naming error in the initial business case, which made it necessary for the state to submit a fresh and comprehensive application.
“This revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State, affirming our vision for industrial growth, job creation and sustainable development anchored on our coastline and maritime assets,” the governor said.
Mr Aiyedatiwa noted that his administration was prioritising key supporting infrastructure, including the dualisation of access roads to industrial zones and other modernisation projects.
He added that plans were underway for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to support the expected influx of investors, skilled workers and businesses.
The governor reaffirmed that the deep sea port and its ancillary projects would drive inclusive development across all local government areas of Ondo State.
