In a significant development for the state of Ondo, the federal government has given its nod for the establishment of a deep seaport in the region.
This announcement came during a meeting of the federal executive council (FEC) held in Abuja on Monday, presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The approval for the operating license of the port was granted after the Ministry of Transportation, under the leadership of Minister Mu’azu Sambo, presented a memorandum. Olatunde Richard, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Akeredolu, confirmed this information in a statement.
Ondo state has made persistent efforts over the years to establish a deep seaport. Initially, the port was planned for Olokola in 2004, but the project did not materialize.
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, upon assuming office in 2017, renewed the state government’s commitment to the establishment of the deep seaport.
The efforts gained further momentum when Prince Ademola Adegoroye, an indigene of Ondo state, was appointed as the Minister of State for Transportation in the federal ministry in July 2022, just ten months ago.
Governor Akeredolu diligently submitted the proposal for the port’s establishment to the federal government, and both the state and federal authorities carried out extensive due diligence.
The proposed port, located in Ondo, spans an expansive area measuring 2,771.2 hectares and is accompanied by an industrial city with free trade zone status.
This approval marks a significant milestone for Ondo state, opening up avenues for economic growth and job creation in the region.
The establishment of the deep seaport is expected to boost trade and maritime activities, attracting investments and fostering industrial development.
The government of Ondo anticipates that the port will serve as a major gateway for international trade and contribute to the overall development of the state’s economy.
With the operating license granted by the federal government, the stage is now set for the realization of the long-awaited Ondo deep seaport project.
