Ondo Unveils Strategic Vision for Industrialization, Tourism, and Digital Innovation
By Exponent News Akure 17th October, 2025.
In a bold move to reposition Ondo State as a hub of industrial and economic growth, the state government has outlined a comprehensive development strategy aimed at transforming its economy from one reliant on civil service to a thriving industrial and tourism-driven landscape.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Executive and members of the Online Media Professionals of Nigeria (OMP), Ondo State Chapter, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, emphasized that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration is executing a carefully planned and tactical governance agenda designed for long-term impact.
“The administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa is not slow, as some may believe; it is tactical and strategic,” Ajanaku stated. “To transition Ondo State from a civil service-driven economy to an industrialized one, careful and meticulous planning is required.”
As part of this transformative agenda, Ajanaku announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to commission the foundation for the Ondo Deep Seaport in 2026. The project is anticipated to be a major catalyst for economic growth, opening up the state to maritime commerce and increased foreign investment.
In addition, a 500,000-litre-per-day capacity modular refinery is set to begin operations in the state soon, a move that is expected to significantly boost internal revenue generation and create job opportunities. Discussions are also ongoing for the establishment of a cement factory in Okeluse, Ose Local Government Area.
On the tourism front, the state government has initiated partnerships with private investors—including developers behind Lagos’ Eko Atlantic City—to transform Araromi-Obu into a world-class resort destination. Contracts have been awarded for the upgrade of the iconic Idanre Hills, including the installation of elevators to enhance accessibility for tourists.
“In the Southwest, after Lagos, Ondo State possesses the greatest economic potential,” Ajanaku noted. “We are endowed with natural resources, tourism sites, and an oil-producing status as part of the Niger Delta Development Commission. The Aiyedatiwa administration is committed to harnessing these opportunities to create a self-sustaining economy.”
He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development projects like the Shagari Bridge in Akure, which are expected to be completed and showcased during the state’s 50th anniversary celebration in February 2026.
As part of its digital strategy, the Ministry of Information is set to launch a mobile application designed to track and combat fake news, alongside a new website to enhance public engagement and information dissemination.
Ajanaku praised the media’s role in nation-building and reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to work closely with online media professionals in promoting accurate reporting and public trust in governance.
Earlier, OMP Chairman, Joseph Adesuyan, congratulated the commissioner on his appointment and pledged the group’s support in countering misinformation and highlighting the government’s development efforts.
