By Abubkar Yunusa
The ministry of marine and blue economy, says it has formally handed over the revalidated Ondo deep seaport certificate to Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the state governor.
The approval for the port’s establishment in the state was first granted by the federal government (FG) in May 2023.
The revalidation, which comes two years after setbacks linked to “naming error”, was announced in a statement by Bolaji Akinola, the minister’s special adviser on media, on Monday.
Adegboyega Oyetola, the minister of marine and blue economy, described the development as a strategic intervention by the FG to unlock the state’s vast maritime and blue economy potential.
The minister was optimistic that the port would catalyse trade, industrialisation, and regional economic integration.
He said the port aligns with the federal government’s agenda 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,” he said.
Oyetola said the port, located along the Atlantic corridor, would boost non-oil exports, improve ease of doing business, and attract foreign direct investment into the south-west and the country.
“The revalidated licence provides certainty to investors and sends a strong signal that Nigeria is ready for serious maritime investments,” the minister said.
“With the supporting infrastructure planned around the port, Ondo state is positioning itself as a major player in the blue economy.”
Aiyedatiwa, while receiving the certificate, appreciated President Bola Tinubu and the federal executive council (FEC) for approving the revalidation.
The governor described the moment as the culmination of years of effort, recalling that the licence was initially obtained during his tenure as deputy governor, but “a naming error caused setbacks and necessitated a fresh 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,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa added that his administration is prioritising infrastructure development, including roads, educational and hospitality facilities, to support the port and drive statewide development.
