The Federal Government (FG) has revalidated the licence for the proposed Ondo Deep Sea Port, marking a significant milestone in the state’s drive to become a central hub for international maritime trade.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa received the revalidated document on Thursday, from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during a ceremony in Abuja.
Originally approved in 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the licence required revalidation due to technical errors in the original documentation.
Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to the FG for fast-tracking the process, stating that the state is now prepared to commence the project.
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Aiyedatiwa emphasised that the Ondo Deep Sea Port is not merely a state project but a strategic national asset designed to serve Nigeria and the wider West African region.
“Such infrastructure could not be restricted to state-level use… it is a gateway to international operations and businesses,” the governor noted, highlighting its capacity to anchor the nation’s industry and commerce.
The port’s design provides several competitive advantages over existing maritime infrastructure in Nigeria.
At approximately 18 metres deep, the port has a natural depth that surpasses the current capacities in Lagos.
Its draught allows large international vessels to berth with ease.
The port’s size also eliminates the need for transhipment, enabling ships to sail directly into the state waters from global origins.
Beyond cargo movement, the governor anticipates a significant economic ripple effect, with a surge in hospitality, financial services, and humanitarian activities as people move into the state for the project.
With the revalidated licence in hand, the state government is moving toward the construction phase.
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Aiyedatiwa noted that the commencement of work will trigger immediate economic activity, benefiting the state’s hospitality sector and overall economy.
The governor reaffirmed that the project is a “natural hub” that will drive trade and create a more robust economic environment for generations to come.
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