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By Daniel Adaji
The Federal Government has cleared the Ondo Deep Sea Port for take-off with the formal presentation of its revalidated operating certificate to Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, signalling a major push to unlock the state’s maritime and industrial potential.
Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
He noted that the Minister, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, handed over the revalidated certificate to the governor at his office in Abuja on Thursday, describing the move as a strategic intervention to activate Ondo State’s blue economy assets and position the port as a driver of national growth.
Oyetola said the deep sea port aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to diversify the economy through maritime infrastructure, logistics and coastal development, adding that it would catalyse trade, industrialisation and regional economic integration.
“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 stated that the port’s Atlantic corridor location would boost non-oil exports, improve ease of doing business and attract foreign direct investment to the South-West and the wider economy.
“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.
Receiving the certificate, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, describing it as the culmination of years of sustained effort by the state.
He recalled that the original licence, obtained during his tenure as deputy governor, faced setbacks due to a naming error in the initial business case, which necessitated a fresh and comprehensive submission.
“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.
Aiyedatiwa said his administration was already prioritising supporting infrastructure, including the dualisation of access roads to industrial zones and modernisation projects, alongside preparations for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to accommodate the anticipated influx of workers and investors.
He added that the deep sea port and its associated developments would have a statewide impact, driving inclusive growth across all local government areas.