The Federal Government has taken a decisive step to unlock Ondo State’s maritime and industrial potential with the revalidation of the Ondo Deep Sea Port licence, signalling fresh momentum for trade, jobs and investment, according to MaritimeFirst report.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, formally presented the revalidated certificate to Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State at his office in Abuja.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Lagos by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Bolaji Akinola.
Oyetola described the revalidation as a major milestone and a strategic federal intervention to harness Ondo State’s vast blue economy resources.
He said the deep-sea port would serve as a catalyst for trade expansion, industrialisation and regional economic integration, in line with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda.
“The Ondo Deep Sea Port is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that will boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, ease congestion at existing ports, and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing and job creation,” Oyetola said.
He added that the port’s Atlantic corridor location would enhance non-oil exports, improve the ease of doing business and attract foreign direct investment to the South-West and the wider economy.
According to him, the revalidated licence provides clarity and confidence for investors, reinforcing Nigeria’s readiness for large-scale maritime investments.
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Receiving the certificate, Aiyedatiwa thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, describing it as the outcome of years of sustained effort.
He explained that the original licence had faced delays due to a naming error in the initial business case, necessitating a fresh and comprehensive submission.
“This revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State, affirming our vision for industrial growth, job creation and sustainable development anchored on our coastline and maritime assets,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa said his administration was prioritising supporting infrastructure, including the dualisation of access roads to industrial zones and modernisation projects.
He added that plans were also underway for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to support the anticipated influx of investors and workers.
The governor reaffirmed that the port and its ancillary projects would drive inclusive development across all local government areas of the state.
