As Gov Aiyedatiwa engages APC stakeholders, urges unity to strengthen party.
…Kekemeke, Abayomi, others hail governor on governance, leadership.
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the revalidation of the state’s deep sea port licence, a milestone he described as pivotal for industrialisation and investments in the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made the announcement on Friday while addressing All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders at the final expanded quarterly meeting for 2025 at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, in Akure.
He explained that the licence, initially secured from the Federal Government during his tenure as deputy governor, faced delays due to a naming error in the original business case.
“There was an error in terms of the name of the potential investor. It created setbacks because the licence was not in the name of Deep Sea Port Limited. We had to start new processes and prepare a brand-new full business case,” he said.
The Governor revealed the port will be located in Erunona, Ilaje local government area, which boasts the state’s longest coastline and serves as a gateway to global trade.
The corridor, he added, will host chemical plants producing fertilisers, the Sunshine Petroleum Zone, and a modular refinery with a 500,000-barrel capacity, all at different planning and development stages.
“A lot is happening. The MOU has been signed, land allocated and preliminary work done. Construction on the modular refinery has already begun,” he said, underlining the state’s readiness for large-scale investments.
He emphasised infrastructure development as central to the administration’s strategy, noting that roads to industrial zones are being dualised and modernisation projects are ongoing. Preparations for residential, educational, and hospitality facilities to support an anticipated population increase are also underway.
Highlighting social achievements, Dr. Aiyedatiwa noted that 412 primary healthcare centres have been completed or nearing completion, ambulances provided to all local governments, and doctors’ welfare prioritised.
“Security remains a key focus, with 512 personnel deployed across the state, supported by command and control centres. Traditional rulers have been prioritised with enhanced salaries and mobility to strengthen grassroots oversight,” he said.
Dr. Aiyedatiwa urged party unity, stressing that personal ambitions should not divide the APC. Recalling his governorship primary, he said, “Even if your aspirant does not secure a ticket, it should not divide the party. Eight of 15 aspirants supported me immediately, and the others eventually joined. That is the way it should be.”
He also called for unity ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Linking state progress to national reforms, the Governor said improved fiscal policies have allowed Ondo to invest in infrastructure, security, and industrial projects while reducing debt.
“We have started with infrastructure and security to attract investors. Once the port, refinery, and petrochemical plants are operational, we can access further funding to support mega projects,” he explained.
Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that February 2026 will mark the first anniversary of the elected administration and will feature an investment summit to showcase industrial opportunities to global investors.
He affirmed inclusive development, noting that all local governments will benefit from these projects, with the Native Lookout hosting assets to transform the state’s fortunes.
The Southwest APC Vice Chairman, Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, praised the governor for his humility and inclusive leadership.
He urged lawmakers to participate fully in party activities and highlighted the expansion of representation from 10 to 60 delegates per local government, welcoming stakeholders from all 18 local government areas.
In his goodwill message, Dr Tunji Abayomi lauded the administration’s achievements, noting the quarterly Stakeholders’ Meetings and the establishment of the Governorship Advisory Council.
He also praised last week’s inaugural dialogue between state party executives and the government as unprecedented.
Chief Jamiu Ekungba commended the administration and urged stakeholders to speak positively of the governor’s work. “When a man is making an effort… and you don’t say good things about him, God will judge you,” he said.
Dr S.B. Akerele highlighted the governor’s strategic and fiscally prudent approach, urging better communication of projects to strengthen governance and citizen confidence.
Also in attendance were Deputy Governor Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative and Party Affairs, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; and other party chieftains from across all the 18 local government areas.