The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has reassured investors that Ondo State is a safe haven and the destination point for businesses that cut across the agricultural sector , tourism , oil and gas as well as the state being home to a lot of untapped mineral resources like bitumen and the emerging investment opportunities around the blue economy .
The governor made the pledge during an interactive session tagged “An evening with Mr Governor” , with the theme “The Role of The Private Sector in Governance and Development of Ondo State “.
According to the Governor, the private sector is not just a driver of economic growth but also a vital partner in entrenching good governance.
The Governor hailed his predecessor late governor Rorimi Akeredolu for his efforts in the creation of Amotekun Corps, which have earned Ondo the status of one of the most peaceful and secured states in Nigeria.
He said “One of the core desires of the State Government is to make Ondo State a hub of industrialisation, where jobs will be readily available for the teeming employable youths as well as provide a better livelihood for the people.
This he stressed led to the partnership between Ondo State and Linyi Province which birthed Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, at the Ore Industrial Park, located in an accessible, strategic and self-sustaining environment with immense contribution to the economic growth of the State.
“We reckon with the private sector as a vital catalyst for growth, driving innovation, job creation and economic diversification in the coming years.
“Ondo State with its rich endowment in human and natural resources has the potential to rank among the five top economically viable states in Nigeria . One of the uniqueness of the State is that it parades a luxuriant vegetation, perennially favourable weather and extensive fertile land suitable for agriculture.
The State the governor added has abundant mineral resources which include crude oil, granite, limestone, and has the second largest deposit of bitumen in the World.
“Government will encourage private investments in agriculture and agri-business. This is the core of our recent initiative to create the AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY COMMITTEE to drive the process of making food available and affordable in the State.
“We shall facilitate and pursue an aggressive economic diversification through the Blue Economy, including fisheries, tourism, marine transportation and other economic activities directly or indirectly connected to the marine.
We must also mention the 75 kilometres of Atlantic Coastline, reputed to be the longest unbroken seashore in Nigeria, the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport; and the ongoing Federal road construction from Lagos to Calabar, all of which will serve to open up the State to business opportunities for potential private investors and global trading.
“We must tap the energies, skills and knowledge of the youths to enable this critical segment drive the economy of the State. Apart from the various entrepreneurial empowerment for the youth in agriculture and ICT put in placed by the State Government.
Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the organisers of the parley and the author of the book written in his honour.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Convener of the program, Mr Bankole Betiku, noted that the program marks the culmination of efforts to convene development partners from diverse endeavors to share expertise and insights on driving sustainable growth and development in Ondo State.
He said “Essentially, the private sector is fundamental to good governance and economic growth considering its potential to inject innovation, expertise, and resources into the economy on a scale that yields tangible progress and improvements in the lives of citizens”.
Betiku appreciated the government of Ondo State for their unwavering commitment to private sector growth and development.
“I believe this engagement will help us to identify opportunities, address challenges, and offer innovative solutions that will propel Ondo State towards sustainable development and economic prosperity. Your contributions will be invaluable in shaping the future of our great state”.
Speaking, Chief Alex Ajipe noted that Ondo State is very accommodating across the globe, when it comes investment drive. He added that the government need to do more by carrying everyone along in its vision.
Also speaking, Dr Abiola Oshodi, who spoke on “Increasing revenue through blue economy, tourism, Oil and gas and project financing noted that a lot needs to be done to ensure the development of the State as well as the security and safety of the people .
The Managing Director, Bank Of Industry, Mr Supo Olalusi, stated that industrialization is important in the development of any nation, noting that the Bank Of Industry is willing to work with the state Government for the development of the State.
The highlight of the event included a book launch titled ” The Journey : Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa”, authored by Allen Sowore.
In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, members of the State Executive Council, All Progressives Congress chieftains led by the State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Traditional rulers, Group CEO of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, Banks Managing Directors.