By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

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The Ondo and Ekiti State governments are collaborating on business integration to ensure rapid and sustainable development.

The State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Prince Boye Ologbese, and his counterpart from Ekiti State, Dr. Makanjuola Kareem, who led the team from his state, announced this during a meeting in Akure.

Ologbese stated that with the deep seaport coming on board in Ondo State, it is also important for Ekiti State to have a dry Port. He noted that it is beneficial that Ekiti is also planning to have a cargo airport, which is a business advantage.

According to him, a diaspora smart city is also being developed, which would serve as a tourism hub for the region. The partnership will promote the tourism business in both states.

He emphasized the need to enhance security efforts, suggesting the creation of a common data system within the Southwest region now that Amotekun is fully operational. Identity cards will be issued to farm users and operators before accessing farm areas to distinguish criminals from genuine farmers.

Ologbese also stressed the need for a security trust fund in the region to strengthen security, believing that a secured region will attract significant investments.

The Commissioner added that they will use security measures to guard the border markets. With the high cost of food commodities, the two states will work on border markets.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Regional Development and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Makanjuola Kareem, noted that the collaborative discussion aims to advance both Ekiti and Ondo States.

He appreciated the governors of the two states for addressing the menace of criminals, saying that collaboration would tackle insecurity head-on.

The Commissioner said that Ekiti and Ondo have much in common, noting that many citizens contribute to the economies of both states and the region.

He stated that it would be highly beneficial if roads were motorable so that goods can be easily moved from the seaport to the dry port. If both sea and cargo ports work together, it will greatly benefit the region and the country in general.

Makanjuola believes that the collaboration will promote peace and development, thereby improving the quality of life for the citizens.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ekiti, Prince Tunji Ogunlola, and the Administrative Secretary of the Ondo State Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Mr. Kunle Ajibade, appreciated the governors of the two states for the opportunity to chart the way forward.