….As Governor interacts with Media Professionals at Seaside ahead his Feb. 24 Swearing-In.
By: Ade Adeleke
As part of the activities leading to his inauguration tomorrow (Monday 24th February, 2025), the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, at the weekend led a team of top government functionaries, media professionals and dignitaries to Araromi Seaside in Ilaje Local Government Area of the State to showcase economic and tourism potentials of the beach.
The Governor said, the visit to the beach, is part of the determination of his administration to expand the tourism and investment prospects of the State.
In an interactive session with media professionals led by the Ondo State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Prince Leke Adegbite at a World Press Conference, Aiyedatiwa pointed out that his visit aimed at showcasing the riverine region’s vast economic opportunities, noting that investors are already showing interest in those opportunities.
The Governor opined that, “the strategic location of this area, just a 45-minute journey away from Lagos, will become even more accessible with the ongoing development of the coastal highway. This project will enhance connectivity and boost tourism.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa revealed that La Campagne Tropicana and others are already in discussion with the government, adding that such partnerships would materialize in the coming months.
He assured that with the availability of boats, accessing the area would be seamless, opening doors for job creation and economic growth.
“This visit is all about showcasing what Ondo State has to offer. We want investors, both local and international, to see the untapped opportunities that exist in Araromi and other parts of the state. Our coastline, infrastructure projects, and strategic partnerships all point to a bright future for tourism, trade, and economic expansion.
“Ondo State is open for business, and we are ready to work with stakeholders to transform our natural assets into thriving economic hubs that will create jobs, boost revenue, and enhance the quality of life for our people,” Governor Aiyedatiwa declared.
During the interactive session with journalists, themed ‘Unlocking Investment Opportunities Around the Sea’, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that every sector of the economy would benefit from his administration’s Our Ease agenda, which is designed to drive holistic development.
On concerns over the delayed Ondo deep sea port project, which had received licensing approval from former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Governor explained that an error in the initial approval process necessitated a restart.
However, he assured that progress is underway, revealing that he has engaged with international investors to ensure the Ondo State Deep Sea Port becomes a reality.
Earlier in his welcome address, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, the Alara of Araromi Kingdom, expressed profound gratitude for the governor’s focus on development, particularly the award of two intra-town road projects in the area.
“Araromi Sea-Side Kingdom is not just a settlement; it is an economic hub waiting to be fully explored. We are a peaceful, progressive people who value development, education, and collaboration with the state to foster economic growth,” the monarch added.
After the press conference, the Governor took a dive at the beach, encouraging the people to take advantage of the leisure the seaside offers.
Popular musicians like Daddy Showkey and Teni Entertainer, as well as the State Cultural Troupe and local performers entertained the crowd at the event.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Member representing Ondo East/West federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abiola Makinde; the APC State Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin; the SUBEB Chairman, Rt Hon. Victor Olabimtan; State Lawmakers including member representing Okitipupa 1, Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa; immediate past members of the State Executive Council, newly sworn-in Local Government chairmen, Traditional Rulers, Security Chiefs including Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, among others.
