Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared the coastal Ilaje Local Government Area a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic future, enlisting the support of residents for several multibillion-naira state and federal “mega projects.”
Speaking yesterday during his ongoing statewide “Thank-You” tour, the governor announced a major breakthrough for the state’s maritime ambitions: the official revalidation of the operating licence for the Ondo Deep Sea Port.
“This is a major economic milestone,” the governor told a cheering crowd, explaining that the port is the anchor for a massive industrial hub being developed within the Sunshine Free Trade Zone.
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The governor outlined an integrated industrial axis in Ilaje, highlighting several key projects. He noted that the Ondo Deep Sea Port has now been legally cleared for full-scale development following licence revalidation.
He added that the state had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with promoters for a petrochemical and fertiliser plant.
The governor also revealed plans for a modular refinery with a capacity of 500,000 barrels per day, aimed at boosting the local economy and enhancing energy security.
Additionally, he announced that a contract had been signed with a private firm to develop the Araromi Tourism Corridor, transforming the Araromi seaside into a world-class tourism destination.
Aiyedatiwa praised the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, noting that work on the Ondo State portion of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway has commenced.
The construction is currently moving from the Ebute–Pare axis toward Ogun State.
Once completed, the governor noted, the highway will link Ilaje directly to Lagos, reducing travel time to Nigeria’s largest market to approximately 35 minutes.
Beyond industrialisation, the governor announced plans to upgrade social infrastructure in the riverine communities.
He revealed that the State Executive Council had approved the establishment of a College of Nursing Sciences at Kofawe.
He also disclosed that the Agerige–Zion Pepe road was scheduled for award in 2024.
Additionally, the governor encouraged residents to inspect ongoing projects, including the construction of new concrete walkways designed to improve mobility in the riverine areas.
Aiyedatiwa thanked the people of Ilaje for their support and encouraged them to remain active participants in governance.
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He urged residents to raise any concerns regarding unaddressed needs, promising that his administration would continue to listen and intervene.
“Ilaje is a uniquely blessed part of Nigeria,” the governor remarked, wishing the residents a joyful festive season as he concluded the day’s engagement.
