The Federal Government has revalidated the licence for the Ondo Deep Sea Port, reinforcing its commitment to expanding Nigeria’s blue economy and positioning the project as a key driver of trade, industrialisation and investment.
According to a statement signed by Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy on Monday, the revalidated certificate was formally presented by Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, to Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Governor of Ondo State at the governor’s office in Abuja.
Presenting the certificate on Thursday, December 18, 2025, Oyetola described the revalidation as a strategic intervention aimed at unlocking Ondo State’s vast maritime and coastal potential.
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He said the deep sea port would serve as a catalyst for economic growth, regional integration and industrial development, in line with the Federal Government’s agenda to diversify the economy through maritime infrastructure and logistics.
“The Ondo Deep Sea Port is not just a project for Ondo State; it is a national asset that will strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in global shipping, reduce pressure on existing ports, and create a new hub for exports, manufacturing and job creation,” the minister said.
Oyetola added that the port’s strategic location along the Atlantic corridor would significantly boost non-oil exports, improve the ease of doing business and attract foreign direct investment into the South-West and the wider Nigerian economy.
“The revalidated licence provides certainty to investors and sends a strong signal that Nigeria is ready for serious maritime investments. With the supporting infrastructure planned around the port, Ondo State is positioning itself as a major player in the blue economy,” Oyetola said.
The Ministry noted that the project aligns squarely with national efforts to deepen port capacity, decongest existing facilities and create new industrial and logistics hubs along Nigeria’s coastline.
Receiving the certificate, the Governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the revalidation, describing it as the culmination of years of sustained effort by the state.
He recalled that the licence, originally obtained during his tenure as deputy governor, had faced setbacks due to a naming error in the initial business case, which necessitated the preparation and submission of a fresh and comprehensive proposal.
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“This revalidated certificate is a turning point for Ondo State. It validates our vision for industrial growth, job creation and sustainable development anchored on our long coastline and maritime assets,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed that his administration is prioritising the development of supporting infrastructure to maximise the port’s economic impact. These include the dualisation of access roads to industrial zones, modernisation projects, and plans for residential, educational and hospitality facilities to support the expected influx of workers, investors and businesses.
He further noted that the Ondo Deep Sea Port and its associated projects would have a statewide impact, driving inclusive growth across all local government areas and strengthening Ondo State’s position as an emerging maritime and industrial hub in Nigeria.
