The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, 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.
This was contained in a statement on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr Bolaji Akinola. According to the statement, presenting the certificate last week, Oyetola described the revalidation as a strategic intervention by the Federal Government to unlock Ondo State’s vast maritime and blue economy potential.
He noted that the deep seaport would catalyse trade, industrialisation, and regional economic integration. Oyetola stated that the port aligns squarely with the Federal Government’s agenda to diversify the economy through maritime infrastructure, logistics, and coastal development.
“The Ondo Deep Seaport is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that would strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, reduce pressure on existing ports, and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing, and job creation,” Oyetola said.
The minister 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 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,” he said.
Receiving the certificate, Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation to 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 licence, originally obtained during his tenure as deputy governor, had suffered setbacks due to a naming error in the initial business case, which required the preparation of 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,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He further explained that his administration was prioritising supporting infrastructure, including the dualisation of access roads to industrial zones and modernisation projects, alongside preparations for residential, educational, and hospitality facilities to cater to the expected influx of workers and investors.
The governor reiterated that the port and associated projects would have a statewide impact, driving inclusive development across all local government areas.
The proposed Ondo Deep Sea Port is a major maritime infrastructure project located in Erona in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, along Nigeria’s Atlantic coastline. It is designed to serve as a multipurpose deep seaport capable of handling large ocean-going vessels and to open a new gateway for international trade for Nigeria and the West African region.
