By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Ahead of his inauguration on Monday, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State led a delegation of top government officials and dignitaries to Araromi Seaside in Ilaje Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to expanding the state’s tourism and investment prospects.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the region’s vast economic potential, noting that investors were already showing interest.
He emphasised that Araromi’s strategic location—just 45 minutes from Lagos—would become even more accessible with the ongoing coastal highway project, which aims to boost connectivity and tourism.
“La Campagne Tropicana and other investors are in discussions with the government, and we expect these partnerships to materialise soon. With improved transportation, including boat access, this area will become a hub for job creation and economic growth,” he stated.
During a press session themed: ‘Unlocking Investment Opportunities Around the Sea’, the Governor assured that his administration’s Our Ease agenda would drive holistic development across all sectors.
Addressing concerns over the delayed deep sea port project, which had received licensing approval from former President Muhammadu Buhari, Aiyedatiwa explained that errors in the initial approval process had required a restart.
However, he assured that discussions with international investors were ongoing to make the project a reality.
On agriculture, the Governor promised to support farmers by clearing land for large-scale farming and providing necessary assistance to enhance food production.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to infrastructure, announcing the award of contracts for the construction of healthcare facilities across the 203 wards of the state.
Additionally, he revealed that the long-awaited road project at Oda in Akure would be commissioned next month.
In education, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that newly recruited teachers would receive their employment letters post-inauguration and would be posted based on their residential locations to ensure equitable distribution of manpower and prevent rural-urban migration.
Welcoming the Governor, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, the Alara of Araromi Kingdom, expressed gratitude for the government’s focus on development, particularly the award of two intra-town road projects in the area.
“Araromi is not just a settlement but an economic hub waiting to be explored. We are a peaceful, progressive people eager to collaborate for growth,” he said.
Following the press conference, Governor Aiyedatiwa took a symbolic dive into the beach waters, underscoring its tourism potential.
The event was marked by lively entertainment from musicians like Daddy Showkey and Teni Entertainer, alongside performances by the State Cultural Troupe and local artistes.
Dignitaries in attendance included Deputy Governor; Dr Olayide Adelami, the lawmaker representing Ondo West and East Federal Constituency in the National Assembly; Hon. Abiola Makinde, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly; Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff to the Governor; Prince Segun Omojuwa, Ondo State Chairman of the ruling APC; Engr. Ade Adetimehin, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, senior journalists and other top government officials.
