As part of the activities leading to his inauguration on Monday, the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Saturday led a team of top government functionaries and dignitaries to Araromi Seaside in Ilaje Local Government Area of the State.
The visit to the beach, the Governor said, is part of the commitment of his administration to expand the tourism and investment prospects of the State.
The Governor reiterated that his visit aimed to showcase the riverine region’s vast economic opportunities, adding that investors are already showing interest in those opportunities.
“The strategic location of this area, just a 45-minute journey away from Lagos, will become even more accessible with the ongoing development of the coastal highway. This project will enhance connectivity and boost tourism,” the Governor noted.
Governor Aiyedatiwa revealed that La Campagne Tropicana and others are already in discussion with the government, adding that such partnerships would materialize in the coming months.
He assured that with the availability of boats, accessing the area would be seamless, opening doors for job creation and economic growth.
“This visit is all about showcasing what Ondo State has to offer. We want investors, both local and international, to see the untapped opportunities that exist in Araromi and other parts of the state. Our coastline, infrastructure projects, and strategic partnerships all point to a bright future for tourism, trade, and economic expansion.
“Ondo State is open for business, and we are ready to work with stakeholders to transform our natural assets into thriving economic hubs that will create jobs, boost revenue, and enhance the quality of life for our people,” Governor Aiyedatiwa declared.
During an interactive session with journalists, themed ‘Unlocking Investment Opportunities Around the Sea’, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that every sector of the economy would benefit from his administration’s Our Ease agenda, which is designed to drive holistic development.
On concerns over the delayed deep sea port project, which had received licensing approval from former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Governor explained that an error in the initial approval process necessitated a restart. However, he assured that progress is underway, revealing that he has engaged with international investors to ensure the Ondo State Deep Sea Port becomes a reality.
Speaking on infrastructure, the Governor reiterated his commitment to road construction and maintenance across all 18 local government areas, assuring that new roads and bridges would be built to improve connectivity and economic activities.
Touching on education, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that employment letters for newly recruited teachers would be issued after his inauguration.
He also clarified that teachers would be posted across different parts of the state based on their areas of residence to ensure even distribution of manpower and prevent rural-urban drift.
The Governor disclosed that contracts have been awarded for the construction of primary healthcare facilities in the 203 wards across the State, while the ongoing road project at Oda in Akure will be commissioned next month.
Earlier in his welcome address, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, the Alara of Araromi Kingdom, expressed profound gratitude for the governor’s focus on development, particularly the award of two intra-town road projects in the area.
“Araromi Sea-Side Kingdom is not just a settlement; it is an economic hub waiting to be fully explored. We are a peaceful, progressive people who value development, education, and collaboration with the state to foster economic growth,” the monarch added.
After the press conference, the Governor took a dive at the beach, encouraging the people to take advantage of the leisure the seaside offers.
Popular musicians like Daddy Showkey and Teni Entertainer, as well as the State Cultural Troupe and local performers entertained the crowd at the event.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Member representing Ondo East/West federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abiola Makinde, immediate past members of the State Executive Council, Local Government chairmen, Traditional Rulers, among others.
