By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of the Araromi Sea-Side Kingdom, stating that his government will harness the area’s potential for economic growth and tourism.

The governor made this declaration on Saturday during a visit to the coastal community as part of activities leading to his inauguration on Monday.

He lauded the people for their overwhelming support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in recent elections, stressing that the visit was to highlight the untapped opportunities in the area, which boasts a 70km-long coastline stretching from Ogun State to Delta State.

“The strategic location of this area, just 45 minutes from Lagos, will become even more accessible with the ongoing development of the coastal highway. This project will enhance connectivity and boost tourism,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

He disclosed that La Campagne Tropicana was already in talks with Araromi Beach for potential investments, noting that such partnerships would materialise soon.

He added that the provision of boats would ease access to the area, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic activities.

“The road leading to the beach is being developed by the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), further demonstrating our government’s commitment to unlocking the state’s tourism potential,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa assured that Ondo State remains open for business, urging both local and international investors to explore opportunities in Araromi and other parts of the state.

He noted that infrastructure projects and strategic partnerships would drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents.

At a world press conference themed Unlocking Investment Opportunities Around the Sea, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to bolster infrastructure and economic expansion. He assured that every sector would benefit from his ‘Our Ease’ agenda, aimed at fostering holistic development.

On the delayed deep-sea port project, which had received licensing approval from former President Muhammadu Buhari, Aiyedatiwa explained that an error in the initial process necessitated a restart.

However, he assured that progress was underway, revealing that discussions with international investors were ongoing to actualise the project.

Regarding the state’s revenue projection, the governor disclosed that his administration aimed to generate at least ₦5 billion monthly.

He stated that modern technology would be deployed to curb revenue leakages and enhance efficiency in financial management.

Aiyedatiwa also highlighted plans to improve infrastructure across all 18 local government areas, pledging to construct new roads and bridges to enhance connectivity and economic activities.

In the agricultural sector, he reaffirmed Ondo State’s position as Nigeria’s largest cocoa producer, stating that the 2024 budget prioritised agriculture.

He disclosed that agreements had been signed with investors to boost agribusiness, while urging youths to embrace farming as a viable career path.

On education, he assured that appointment letters for new teachers would be issued after his inauguration, with equitable deployment across the state to ensure balanced manpower distribution.

Responding to concerns about potable water in riverine communities, the governor recalled his childhood experience of paddling boats in search of clean water.

He, however, noted that the situation had improved with the provision of boreholes, and assured that more projects were in the pipeline to enhance water supply.

Earlier, the Alara of Araromi Sea-Side Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, commended the governor’s development initiatives, particularly the approval of two intra-town road projects.

“We appreciate your administration’s goodwill despite economic challenges. The award of the Araromi Sea-Side to Beach Road and the Araromi Sea-Side Old Beach Road to Holy Centre projects shows your commitment to our community,” the monarch stated.

Oba Olawole traced the community’s history to the 13th century, emphasising its economic potential in crude oil, coconut plantations, beach sand minerals, and fisheries.

He described Araromi as an untapped economic hub, calling for more investments in its development.

Recounting a similar visit by late Governor Adekunle Ajasin in 1980, the monarch expressed optimism that Aiyedatiwa’s visit would leave a lasting legacy.

“As history remembers Papa Adekunle Ajasin for his impact on our community, so shall history be kind to you, Your Excellency, for bringing another chapter of progress to Araromi Sea-Side Kingdom,” he declared.

Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Member representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency Hon. Abiola Makinde, past members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, and traditional rulers.